- For Women Facing a Breast Biopsy
- Benign breast conditions: Not all lumps are cancer
- Diagnostic tests for breast conditions
- Types of biopsy procedures
- Questions to ask before having a biopsy
- Your breast biopsy results
- Biopsy and surgery: How they work together
- Waiting for the results
- You are not alone: Getting emotional support
- To learn more
- Appendix A: What is breast cancer?
- Appendix B: Guidelines for early detection of breast cancer
- Appendix C: Mammograms: Finding hidden breast cancer
- Appendix D: American Cancer Society support services for people facing cancer
Previous Topic
Biopsy and surgery: How they work together
Waiting for the results
If you have a biopsy and have to wait for the results, the waiting can be a frightening time. It can take anywhere from a few days to a week until your doctor gets the report.
Many women go through some strong emotions, including disbelief, anxiety, fear, anger, and sadness during this time. It’s important to know that it’s normal for you to have these feelings. You might need help finding healthy ways to deal with the physical and emotional challenges you’re facing.
Remember, too, that what works for you can be different from what works for others. Some women find comfort in talking with other people about their breast condition, while others want to keep it very private. Some women want to be very involved in decisions, and others may trust their health care team to make those decisions for them. The ways in which this event will affect your lifestyle and your body are unique, and the ways you cope will be unique, too.
Last Medical Review: 07/13/2012
Last Revised: 07/13/2012
