We hope this information has answered many of your questions about breast changes and the early detection of breast cancer. However, no information on the world wide web can take the place of talking with your doctor. Take any questions you have to your doctor. If you don't understand the answer, ask her or him to explain further.

Many women find it helpful to write down their questions ahead of time. Here is a list of some of the most common questions that women have. You may have others. Jot them down as you think of them, and take the list with you when you see your doctor.

• How often should I schedule appointments with you?
  
• How can I tell which lumps are not normal?
  
• What kind of lumps do I have?
  
• Do I need to have a mammogram? When? How often?
  Or if not, why not?
  
• Is there anything in my background that indicates I should have mammograms more often than your usual recommendations?
  
• Where should I have my mammogram?
  
• Did you receive the results of my mammogram? What does the report mean?