When Should You Start Breast Cancer Screening? Guidelines and Risk Factors to Consider

Why Women in Their 20s, 40s, and Beyond May Need a Breast Doctor

Breast health is important at every stage of life, but the concerns women face can differ depending on their age. From benign lumps in young women to screening needs in midlife and changes related to menopause, a breast doctor can provide guidance, reassurance, and treatment tailored to each stage.

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Key Pointers

• In your 20s, most lumps are benign, but it’s still important to get them checked.
• In your 40s, regular mammograms and screenings become essential.
• In your 50s and beyond, hormonal changes after menopause may bring new breast health concerns.
• A breast doctor supports women through all stages, offering reassurance, diagnosis, and treatment when needed.
• Self-awareness matters, but professional guidance ensures nothing is overlooked.

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Why Might Women in Their 20s See a Breast Doctor?

In your 20s, breast cancer is uncommon, but benign lumps are more frequent. Conditions like fibroadenomas (smooth, movable lumps) or cysts are typical at this age. Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can also make breasts feel lumpier or more tender.

While these changes are usually harmless, they can be worrying if you’re not sure what’s normal. A breast doctor can:

• Examine and confirm if a lump is benign
• Provide imaging such as ultrasound if needed
• Offer reassurance and advice on breast self-exams
  

Why Are the 40s a Key Decade for Breast Screening?

For women in their 40s, breast cancer risk begins to rise. This is the age when routine mammogram screening is usually recommended, especially if there are risk factors like family history.

A breast doctor helps by:

• Ordering and interpreting mammograms and ultrasounds
• Advising on screening frequency based on personal risk
• Checking any persistent lumps or changes in the breast

This stage is about early detection, when treatment is often more effective.

What About Breast Health Beyond Menopause?

In the 50s and 60s, hormonal changes due to menopause can cause breast tissue to become less dense but also more prone to changes like calcifications or skin thickening. Some women may also experience tenderness or nipple changes.

A breast doctor can help by:

• Monitoring new or unusual changes
• Distinguishing harmless post-menopausal changes from issues that need attention
• Offering guidance on managing breast health alongside other midlife changes
  

How Does a Breast Doctor Support Women Across All Ages?

No matter your age, a breast doctor provides:

• Clarity when something feels unusual
• Diagnosis through imaging or biopsy if required
• Personalised guidance based on family history, lifestyle, and age
• Reassurance that you’re not facing concerns alone

Breast health isn’t about waiting for symptoms; it’s about ongoing awareness and timely checks.

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FAQs About Breast Health by Age

1. Should women in their 20s get mammograms?
Routine mammograms are not usually recommended at this age unless there are strong risk factors. Ultrasounds are more commonly used for younger women with breast concerns.

2. How often should women in their 40s get screened?
Most guidelines suggest annual or biennial mammograms from age 40 onwards. Your doctor may recommend earlier or more frequent screening if you have a higher risk.

3. Do breast changes after menopause always signal a problem?
Not always. Hormonal shifts can cause changes in texture or size. Still, any new lump or persistent change should be checked by a doctor.

4. Is breast pain always linked to cancer?
No. Breast pain is more often related to hormones, cysts, or infections. But persistent pain with other changes should be evaluated.

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Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

Whatever your age, it’s natural to have questions about breast health. Breast specialist, Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to support you, whether you’re in your 20s noticing a lump, in your 40s due for a screening, or beyond menopause and navigating new changes.

Book a consultation today and be proactive in giving yourself peace of mind and long-term breast health.

Can You Tell the Difference Between Cancerous and Benign Lumps?

Finding a lump in your breast can be unsettling. Naturally, the first question that comes to mind is whether it could be cancer. While some lumps are concerning, many are harmless (benign). Understanding the difference is useful. But it’s equally important to remember that self-checks are not a substitute for professional medical evaluation.

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Key Pointers

• Cancerous lumps often feel hard, irregular, and immovable.
• Benign lumps are usually smooth, softer, and can move slightly under the skin.
• Not all painful lumps are cancer—many are due to cysts or fibroadenomas.
• Self-exams are important for awareness, but only a doctor can confirm the cause.
• If you notice changes that persist, it’s best to seek medical advice.
  

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What Do Cancerous Lumps Usually Feel Like?

Cancerous lumps often have distinctive features compared to benign ones. They are more likely to feel:

• Hard or firm to the touch
• Irregular in shape rather than smooth and round
• Immovable, fixed in one spot rather than shifting under your fingers
  

These lumps usually do not go away with your menstrual cycle. While not all cancerous lumps are painful, some women do experience discomfort.

What About Benign Lumps? How Do They Feel?

Benign lumps come in different forms, but they often share some common characteristics:

• Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that feel smooth and can sometimes be tender, especially before your period.
• Fibroadenomas: Solid, rubbery lumps that move easily under the skin and are often painless.
• Lipomas: Soft, fatty lumps that grow slowly and are harmless.

Benign lumps can fluctuate with hormonal changes, becoming more noticeable at certain times of the month.

Are Self-Exams Enough to Tell the Difference?

Self-exams are important because they help you become familiar with your own body and notice changes early. However, you cannot rely on touch alone to know if a lump is cancerous or not.

Medical imaging (like mammograms or ultrasounds) and sometimes biopsies are needed for a clear diagnosis. This is why self-checks should be paired with regular medical screenings and follow-up appointments.

Is It Time To See a Breast Doctor?

You should make an appointment if you notice:

• A new lump that does not go away after your menstrual cycle
• Changes in the size, shape, or texture of a lump
• Skin changes such as redness, dimpling, or puckering
• Nipple discharge, especially if bloody or persistent
• Ongoing pain or discomfort that doesn’t improve

It’s always safer to get reassurance and clarity from a professional rather than waiting and worrying.

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FAQs About Breast Lumps

1. Are painful lumps more likely to be cancer?
Not necessarily. Many painful lumps are caused by cysts, infections, or hormonal changes. Cancerous lumps are often painless in the early stages.

2. Can breast lumps go away on their own?
Some benign lumps, especially cysts linked to hormonal changes, may shrink or disappear over time. But any persistent lump should be checked.

3. Should younger women worry about breast lumps?
While breast cancer is less common in younger women, benign lumps are more frequent in this age group. It’s still important to get any new lump assessed.

4. If I had a clear mammogram, can I ignore a lump?
No. Mammograms are useful, but they don’t always detect every type of lump. Always consult your doctor if you find a new or changing lump.

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Book a Consultation at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic

If you’ve found a lump and aren’t sure what it means, don’t leave it to guesswork. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you through the next steps.

Book a consultation today for clarity and peace of mind. Your health and reassurance matter, and we’re here to support you.

How to Manage Lactational Disorders at Home

Breastfeeding is often described as natural, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Many women face challenges along the way, particularly with blocked ducts or mastitis. These conditions can be painful and frustrating, but the good news is that there are simple steps you can take at home to manage them, and knowing when to seek medical help is equally important.

Key Pointers

• Blocked ducts can lead to mastitis if not managed early.
• Home care includes warmth, massage, frequent feeding, hydration, and rest.
• Painful lumps aren’t always infections, but persistent symptoms need review.
• Mastitis can cause flu-like symptoms, this is when medical help is needed.
• Seeking advice promptly can prevent complications like abscesses.

Blocked Ducts: Why They Happen

A blocked duct occurs when milk isn’t draining properly from a part of the breast. This can create a tender, firm lump that may feel sore.

Common causes include:

• Skipping or shortening feeds
• Poor latching or positioning of the baby
• Tight clothing or bras pressing against the breast
• Stress and fatigue affecting milk flow

Mastitis: When Infection Sets In

If a blocked duct isn’t relieved, it can sometimes lead to mastitis, a breast infection. Mastitis often causes:

• Redness and swelling in the breast
• Intense pain
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue

It’s important to recognise mastitis early so treatment can start promptly.

Managing Symptoms at Home

Many cases of blocked ducts and early mastitis can improve with self-care measures. Here are some simple things you can do:

• Keep feeding or pumping frequently: Aim to empty the breast regularly, even if it’s uncomfortable at first. This helps clear the blockage.
• Try different feeding positions: Pointing your baby’s chin toward the blocked area can encourage better drainage.
• Apply a warm compress before feeds: Warmth helps milk flow more easily. A warm shower can also be soothing.
• Massage the lump gently: Stroke from behind the blockage toward the nipple while feeding or pumping.
• Stay hydrated and rest: Your body needs energy and fluids to keep milk supply steady and support recovery.
• Wear comfortable clothing: Avoid bras that dig into the breast.
  

When to Seek Medical Advice

While many blockages clear with home care, there are times when professional help is necessary. Contact your doctor if:

• You develop a fever or flu-like symptoms
• The breast pain or swelling worsens instead of improving
• There’s pus or blood in the milk
• You’ve tried home measures for 24–48 hours with no relief

Antibiotics may be prescribed for mastitis, and in some cases, further treatment is needed to prevent abscesses from forming.

Looking After Yourself Matters Too

It’s easy to focus only on the baby’s needs during breastfeeding, but your well-being is just as important. Getting enough rest, eating nourishing meals, and asking for support from family members can make recovery smoother and help prevent recurring blockages.

Need Guidance? We’re Here to Help

If you’re struggling with blocked ducts, mastitis, or other breastfeeding challenges, you don’t have to manage it alone. Dr Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic can provide thorough evaluation, treatment if needed, and personalised advice to help you continue your breastfeeding journey with comfort and confidence.

Book a consultation today to get the support you need, for your health and your baby’s well-being.

Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy: What Women Should Know

Key Pointers:

• Lumpectomy removes the tumour with margin; mastectomy removes the whole breast.
• Lumpectomy usually pairs with radiotherapy; mastectomy may reduce recurrence risk.
• Choice depends on tumour size/location, genetics, health, and personal preference.
• Reconstruction options exist for mastectomy; oncoplastic techniques aid cosmesis.
• Consult a lumpectomy surgeon to align cancer control with body goals.

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One of the most important and personal decisions you’ll make is choosing between a lumpectomy and a mastectomy. Both are effective surgical treatments, but they differ in scope, recovery, and emotional impact.

If you’re currently navigating your treatment options or supporting a loved one through it, understanding the key differences can help make the journey feel a little more manageable. Here’s what every woman should know before deciding.

What Is a Lumpectomy?

A lumpectomy, also known as breast-conserving surgery, involves removing only the tumour and a small margin of surrounding tissue. The goal is to eliminate the cancer while preserving as much of the breast as possible.

It’s often followed by radiation therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence, especially in early-stage cancers.

Ideal for:

• Small, localised tumours
• Early-stage breast cancer
• Women who prefer to keep their natural breast shape

What Is a Mastectomy?

A mastectomy involves removing the entire breast, and in some cases, surrounding lymph nodes or muscle tissue, depending on the spread of the cancer. For some women, reconstruction can be done at the same time or later.

There are different types of mastectomies, such as simple, skin-sparing, and nipple-sparing, each tailored to specific clinical needs and personal preferences.

Ideal for:

• Larger or multiple tumours
• High risk of recurrence
• Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2)
• Women who prefer not to have radiation therapy

Lumpectomy vs. Mastectomy

Feature	Lumpectomy	Mastectomy
Breast preservation	Yes	No
Radiation therapy	Typically required	Often not needed
Recovery time	Shorter	Longer, especially with reconstruction
Recurrence risk	Slightly higher (but manageable with radiation)	Lower
Cosmetic impact	Less visible change	Complete breast removal

How to Decide

Choosing between a lumpectomy and mastectomy isn’t only about medical suitability; it’s also about how you feel about your body, lifestyle, and long-term peace of mind. Some women value breast preservation; others prioritise a more aggressive approach to reduce future risk.

Factors that influence your decision may include:

• Tumour size and location
• Breast size relative to the tumour
• Overall health and age
• Family history and genetic factors
• Willingness or ability to undergo radiation
• Emotional comfort with outcomes

Speak With a Specialist You Trust

Whatever choice you make, it’s important to have a thorough conversation with a lumpectomy surgeon or breast specialist who understands your condition and your concerns. Both options can offer excellent long-term survival rates when part of a well-planned treatment strategy.

Dr. Radhika Lakshmanan and the team at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic are here to offer compassionate, individualised guidance to help you understand your surgical options and choose the path that aligns with your health goals and personal values. Book a consultation today to explore what’s right for you.

From Appendicitis To Hernias: Common Surgical Procedures Explained

Key Pointers:

• General surgery treats appendicitis, hernias, gallstones, skin lumps, and colorectal conditions.
• Many operations use minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and smaller scars.
• Warning signs: acute abdominal pain, fever, visible bulge, persistent bleeding, or bowel changes.
• Timely assessment prevents perforation, strangulation, and other serious complications.
• Consult a general surgeon in Singapore for accurate diagnosis and safe treatment.

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When abdominal pain strikes or a bulge appears where it shouldn’t, the thought of surgery can be unsettling. However, in many cases, general surgery provides fast, practical solutions to conditions that could otherwise become serious or life-threatening. In Singapore, procedures like appendectomies and hernia repairs are among the most frequently performed, and understanding them helps reduce anxiety and guide timely action.

If you’re unsure about whether a symptom requires surgery or just monitoring, here’s a breakdown of some standard general surgical procedures and what they involve.

1. Appendicitis and Appendectomy

What it is: Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. It can cause sharp abdominal pain, fever, and nausea.

The surgery: An appendectomy involves removing the inflamed appendix before it ruptures. It’s often performed laparoscopically (through small incisions), which allows for faster recovery and minimal scarring.

Why it’s needed: A ruptured appendix can lead to serious infections and complications. Prompt surgery is the safest and most effective treatment.

2. Hernias and Hernia Repair

What it is: A hernia occurs when part of an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. It often presents as a visible bulge and may cause discomfort, especially when lifting or bending.

The surgery: Hernia repair involves repositioning the protruding tissue and reinforcing the weak spot, often with surgical mesh. It can be done as open or minimally invasive surgery, depending on the case.

Why it’s needed: Left untreated, hernias can grow larger or become strangulated, which is a surgical emergency.

3. Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy)

What it is: Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) can cause severe pain, nausea, and digestive issues.

The surgery: A cholecystectomy removes the gallbladder, commonly via laparoscopy. It’s a routine and safe procedure, with most patients resuming normal activity within a week.

Why it’s needed: Gallstones can block bile flow, causing complications like infections or pancreatitis if not treated.

4. Lumps and Skin Lesions

What it is: General surgery also covers the removal of benign or suspicious lumps under the skin or in soft tissue. These can range from cysts and lipomas to breast lumps requiring biopsy.

The surgery: These procedures are typically done under local anaesthesia, with minimal downtime.

Why it’s needed: Early evaluation and removal reduce the risk of growth, infection, or missed diagnosis of malignancy.

5. Colorectal Procedures

What it is: Conditions like haemorrhoids, anal fistulas, and diverticular disease often require surgical management.

The surgery: Depending on the severity, treatment can range from minimally invasive procedures to more complex operations such as bowel resections.

Why it’s needed: Timely intervention can relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.

Your Health, Your Peace of Mind

General surgery is about restoring comfort and preventing future health risks. Many procedures today are minimally invasive, with shorter recovery times and reduced scarring. Still, the decision to undergo surgery should always be followed by a thorough consultation.

If you’ve been dealing with unexplained symptoms or have been informed you need surgery, book an appointment with Dr Radhika Lakshmanan at The Radhika Breast & General Surgery Clinic for a detailed evaluation and professional care you can trust.

Why Timing Your Breast Health Screening Around Your Menstrual Cycle Matters?

Hormonal fluctuations throughout the month affect breast tissue density and tenderness, influencing both how you feel during the procedure and the clarity of imaging. Throughout a typical 28-day menstrual cycle, levels of oestrogen and progesterone rise and fall in a predictable pattern. In the week leading up to your period, rising oestrogen causes breast ducts to dilate and fluid to accumulate in the tissue. The result? Your breasts may feel fuller, firmer and more sensitive, conditions that can both heighten discomfort under compression and produce denser images that obscure small abnormalities on a mammogram.

On the flip side, the days just after menstruation, usually between day 7 and day 14, tend to present the lowest levels of these hormones. At this point, breast tissue is at its least dense and tender, offering several advantages: mammograms and ultrasounds are easier to interpret, reducing the likelihood of repeat scans, and you’ll generally feel more at ease during the procedure. For most women, this “window of opportunity” is when breast screening delivers optimal results.

Plan Your Appointment with Precision

1. Track Your Cycle: Mark the first day of bleeding as day 1. Over a few months, note the average length to pinpoint your post-period period.
   
2. Book Early: Call your clinic to secure a slot between days 7 and 14. Many screening centres in Singapore understand this timing and may accommodate your preference if you mention it when booking.
   
3. Communicate Discomfort: Even in the ideal window, some women experience sensitivity. Let the radiographer know so they can adjust the compression pressure or use cushioning pads for added comfort.
   

Special Considerations

• Irregular Cycles: If perimenopause or hormonal treatments make your cycle unpredictable, choose any day when your breasts feel least swollen or tender.
  
• Hormonal Medications: Contraceptives or hormone-replacement therapy can alter normal patterns. Consult your doctor about the best timing based on your specific regimen.
  
• Self-Exams: Perform monthly checks a few days after your period to ensure tenderness doesn’t mask lumps, familiarising yourself with your baseline breast texture.
  

Maximise Your Screening Success

• Wear a Two-Piece Outfit: Only your top needs removal, making the process smoother and more discreet.
  
• Skip Caffeine Pre-Scan: Some find that cutting caffeine 24 hours before reduces breast sensitivity.
  
• Bring a Support Buddy: A friend or family member can offer moral support and help you note any follow-up instructions.
  

Aligning your breast health screening with your menstrual cycle may feel like a small step, but it can yield more accurate results and a more comfortable experience. By understanding how hormonal shifts influence breast density and tenderness, you empower yourself to take control of your care.

Ready to schedule your next breast screening at the optimal time? Contact Radhika Breast & General Surgery today and pick a date that works with your cycle. Because a bit of planning now leads to greater peace of mind tomorrow.