## When should you urgently see a doctor Plan a visit to a mammologist if you experience any of the following symptoms: __Pain__ Do you feel ongoing pain in your breasts that intensifies when they are pressed? You may have these symptoms 2–10 days before your period, which is normal. If the symptoms continue after the start of the period, you need to seek medical assistance. __Thickening in the breasts__ You shouldn't delay visiting a mammologist if you have a lump in your breasts or the armpit area. This symptom can indicate the presence of a tumor that requires surgery. __Unusual symptoms__ You should be alerted if you have any discharge from breasts not related to lactation or pregnancy, changes in the size of the breasts, areola or nipples (for example, if they retract), redness, or itchiness. ## Medical examinations and tests A mammologist will check your medical history and examine your breasts to provide an initial diagnosis. A final diagnosis is made based on breast ultrasound or mammography, depending on your age and type of breasts. In the presence of tumors, you may need a core biopsy (a diagnostic procedure used to obtain a fragment of atypical breast tissue). The doctors may send you for mammography as well as for an MRI and a smear of breast discharge, if necessary. You may also need to have basic medical tests (such as clinical and biochemical blood tests, general urine analysis) and hormonal blood tests.