Your breast screening results

When can I expect to receive my results?

Your results will be posted to the address listed with your GP practice, usually within two to three weeks. Please make sure your GP has your correct home address. Your GP will also receive a copy of your results for their records. 

If you do not receive a results letter, please contact the screening office on 01904 725590/91 or email yhs-tr.NorthYorkshire.BreastScreeningService@nhs.net.

What do my results mean?

Routine recall - normal result

This means your mammogram was clear and no changes were seen since your last mammogram (if you've previously had one). You will be invited again for a routine screening in approximately three years. In the meantime, you should remain breast-aware, and report any changes or concerns to your GP.

• Know your breasts - A leaflet from Breast Cancer Now
• Breast care and screening - Easy-read leaflet from Macmillan

Technical recall

This is when you are asked to return to have a mammogram repeated for technical reasons. Occasionally not all the breast tissue can be seen in the images, or the pictures may be blurred. The mammogram is repeated to ensure all the breast tissue can be seen clearly. We will always ask you to return at your convenience to a location near you.

Partial or incomplete mammography

A partial or incomplete mammogram is where we have been unable to fully image the whole or either one of your breasts. There are several reasons why this may be the case.

Breast screening involves having two X-rays (mammograms) taken of each breast. Sometimes, it's difficult to take all the mammograms we need. In some cases, we can take all four X-rays, but they still don't show the whole breast.

Sometimes the mammograms are not possible and the exam may be stopped.

More details on partial or incomplete mammography.

Recall to assessment - second stage screening

If, when the consultant reports your images, they want to look at an area of your breast in more detail, you will be recalled to an assessment clinic. Second stage screening does not mean there is something to worry about.

The Breast Care nurses will be available for support and to answer any further questions you may have. 

All assessment clinics take place at the Breast Imaging Unit, Magnolia Centre, York Hospital, Wigginton Road, York, YO31 8HE.