Breast ultrasound is a crucial diagnostic procedure that allows women to detect potential problems early and maintain their health. This non-invasive method offers numerous advantages, including greater accuracy and safety compared to other imaging techniques. In this article, you will learn what to expect during a breast ultrasound, when it is recommended, and why it is important to choose this procedure to ensure your peace of mind and health.

What is a breast ultrasound?

Definition and procedure

Breast ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic method that uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the breasts. This procedure allows doctors to identify potential problems, such as cysts or tumors, without the need for surgery. Ultrasound works on the principle of reflecting sound waves emitted by an ultrasound machine, which allows clear images of breast tissue to be obtained.

 Breast ultrasound is particularly useful in women with dense breast tissue, where mammography may not provide clear enough information. The procedure is quick and painless, making it a suitable choice for regular check-ups. In addition, ultrasound does not use ionising radiation, which is an added benefit for patients' health. Doctors often recommend ultrasound as a supplement to mammography, especially when evaluating suspicious findings. It is important for women to be aware of the possibilities offered by ultrasound and to have regular medical check-ups.

Compared to other imaging techniques such as mammography and MRI, ultrasound does not use radiation, making it safer for patients. Mammography is usually the first choice for screening women over 40, while MRI is used for further evaluation in specific cases. Ultrasound is often used as a supplement to mammography, especially in young women or those with dense breast tissue. 

Ultrasound has also proven to be extremely useful in assessing certain types of breast changes, such as cysts or solid masses, as it allows differentiation between benign and malignant lesions. In addition, ultrasound can be very effective in guiding biopsies, allowing for more accurate tissue sampling for histological analysis. In recent years, elastography, an advanced ultrasound technique that allows for the assessment of tissue hardness and can aid in the detection of breast cancer in its earlier stages, has also emerged. Nevertheless, it is important to emphasize that ultrasound cannot replace mammography, but rather acts as a complement that improves the overall diagnosis and management of breast disease.

When is a breast ultrasound recommended?

Age guidelines and recommendations

Recommendations for regular breast examinations vary depending on age and family history. Women over the age of 40 are advised to undergo annual mammograms, while ultrasound is recommended for younger women or those at higher risk of breast cancer.

A breast ultrasound is necessary when symptoms such as changes in breast shape, nipple discharge, or lumps appear. Family history of breast cancer also plays an important role in deciding whether an ultrasound is necessary. The combination of ultrasound and other preventive measures, such as self-examination and regular medical checkups, is key to maintaining breast health.

What can you expect during a breast ultrasound?

Process and experience

During a breast ultrasound examination, you will first be invited into the room where the procedure will be performed. Wear comfortable clothing, as you may need to remove your top. Before the examination begins, you will discuss any questions or concerns you may have with the doctor.

The procedure involves applying ultrasound gel to the skin of the breasts, which allows for better contact between the skin and the ultrasound probe. The doctor will move the probe over the surface of the breasts to obtain images. Any discomfort is minimal, but you may feel slight pressure. If you feel uncomfortable, you can always talk to your doctor.

After the procedure, the doctor will analyze the images obtained and explain any findings to you. He will write a report, which you can then give to your personal doctor. If additional tests or treatment are necessary, he will inform you about the next steps. It is important to consult with your doctor after the ultrasound about any questions or concerns you may have. The procedure is usually quick and non-invasive, allowing you to return to your normal activities quickly.

Why is breast ultrasound important?

Advantages and benefits

Breast ultrasound is crucial for early detection of problems, which increases the chances of successful treatment. This method is safe and accurate, as it does not involve exposure to radiation, which is particularly important for younger women.

Breast ultrasound contributes to women's overall health by enabling regular monitoring and prompt action in case of any problems. Regular check-ups and breast health care can reduce the risk of serious health problems. In addition, breast ultrasound allows for better visualization of tissue, which helps doctors make more accurate diagnoses. This procedure is especially useful for women with dense breast tissue, where other methods, such as mammography, may be less effective. Regular ultrasounds can also aid in the early detection of benign changes, reducing anxiety and allowing for timely treatment. Awareness of the importance of breast ultrasounds is key to encouraging women to take an active approach to their health.

Conclusion

Breast ultrasound is a crucial diagnostic procedure that enables early detection of problems and promotes women's health. Regular check-ups are therefore extremely important. We recommend that you book an ultrasound examination at Ultrazdravje d.o.o. as soon as possible. For more information about our clinic, visit ultrazdravje.si. We recommend that you book an examination immediately, as breast health is crucial to your overall well-being. Discover the benefits of this procedure and book your appointment quickly and easily via our online system. Your health deserves the best care!

Breast ultrasound: Frequently asked questions and answers

Why is breast ultrasound important and how can it help you?

Breast ultrasound is an important and effective diagnostic method, especially for younger women with denser tissue. At our Ultrazdravje clinic in Ljubljana, we offer quick examinations without waiting times, enabling early detection of any changes.

What is a breast ultrasound and why is it important?

Breast ultrasound is a painless, non-invasive, and safe diagnostic examination that allows for the assessment of breast tissue and axillary lymph nodes. It is especially recommended for younger women, as it complements mammography and aids in the early detection of changes. At Ultrazdravje in Ljubljana, we provide fast and accurate diagnostics without long waiting lists.

When is it advisable to have a breast ultrasound?

We recommend breast ultrasound:

• As a preventive checkup for women aged 20 to 40.
• When symptoms such as pain, lumps, or discharge from the nipples appear.
• If you have an increased risk of breast cancer (family history, genetic factors).
• As a supplement to mammography in women with dense tissue.

At Ultrazdravje, we offer quick appointments and easy access to examinations without unnecessary waiting.

Kako poteka ultrazvočni pregled dojk?

Pregled izvaja izkušen zdravnik s pomočjo vrhunske ultrazvočne opreme, ki omogoča natančno slikanje tkiva dojk in pazdušnih bezgavk. Postopek je popolnoma neboleč, traja približno 15 do 20 minut in ne zahteva posebne priprave. V Ultrazdravju poskrbimo za vaše udobje in varnost med celotnim pregledom.

Ali je ultrazvok dojk lahko alternativa mamografiji?

Ne, ultrazvok dojk ni nadomestilo za mamografijo, temveč jo dopolnjuje. Pri ženskah z gostim žlezastim tkivom ultrazvok pogosto omogoča boljšo vidljivost sprememb. V Ultrazdravju vam bomo svetovali, katera preiskava je za vas najprimernejša.

Kako pogosto naj opravim ultrazvok dojk?

Priporočamo:

• 1x na 1–2 leti, če nimate posebnih tveganj.
• Pogosteje, če imate povečano tveganje za raka dojk.
• Po potrebi, če opazite sumljive spremembe.

V Ultrazdravju vam pomagamo pri vzpostavitvi rednih pregledov za boljše spremljanje vašega zdravja.

Kaj če zdravnik na ultrazvoku opazi sumljivo spremembo?

Če ultrazvočni pregled pokaže sumljivo spremembo, bo zdravnik svetoval dodatne preiskave, kot so biopsija ali mamografija. V Ultrazdravju zagotavljamo strokovno svetovanje in vas usmerimo na nadaljnje korake brez nepotrebnega odlašanja.

Kako se pripravim na ultrazvok dojk?

Za ultrazvočni pregled dojk ni potrebna posebna priprava. Priporočamo:

• Pregled v prvi polovici menstrualnega cikla, ko so dojke manj občutljive.
• Udobna oblačila, ki omogočajo lahek dostop do predela dojk.

V Ultrazdravju se lahko naročite hitro in enostavno – brez dolgih čakalnih dob.

Ali ultrazvok dojk boli?

Ne, ultrazvok dojk je popolnoma neboleč. Med pregledom se uporabljajo visokofrekvenčni zvočni valovi, ki ne povzročajo nelagodja. Naša ekipa v Ultrazdravju poskrbi za prijetno in sproščeno izkušnjo.

Kako hitro dobim rezultate ultrazvočnega pregleda dojk?

Rezultate prejmete takoj po pregledu, saj zdravnik interpretira slike v realnem času. V Ultrazdravju se zavedamo, kako pomembno je hitro pridobiti odgovore, zato zagotavljamo takojšnjo obravnavo in jasna pojasnila.