Common breast cancer screening questions

Country SA PHN Newsletter March 2025

BreastScreen SA provides free breast screens every 2 years to South Australian women aged over 40. This month – they’re sharing the answers to some common questions from clients about breast cancer screening:

Q: How much does a breast screen cost?
A: Breast cancer screening at BreastScreen SA is free for women.

Q: Am I eligible for a breast screen?
A: Women aged over 40 who have no symptoms of breast cancer are eligible. Read more about eligibility.

Q: I have a new or changing breast symptom. Can I have a breast screen?
A: No. If you have symptoms or notice changes in your breasts that are not normal for you, do not book a breast screen at BreastScreen SA - see your doctor as soon as possible to arrange further investigation.

Q: I’m pregnant/breastfeeding. Can I have a breast screen?
A: No. If you’re pregnant there is a mild risk the radiation may harm your baby. If you are breastfeeding, screening will not be as effective as your breast tissue is dense with stored milk. BreastScreen SA advises you wait 6 months after stopping breastfeeding before booking your breast screen.

Q: I have breast implants. Can I have a breast screen?
A: Yes. You will need a slightly longer appointment as implants make it harder to see breast tissue so additional images may be required.

Q: What happens at a breast screen appointment?
A: The BreastScreen SA website guides you through each stage of your appointment – read more.

Q: I'm worried about the exposure to radiation. Are breast screens safe?
A: Breast screens deliver a very small dose of radiation to detect breast cancer. The radiation risk from mammograms is negligible for adults and the levels of radiation are safe and well within Australian guidelines. Compared to other medical tests, mammograms have one of the lowest radiation doses. This dose is further minimised by the compression of the breast.

Find out more about breast cancer screening on the BreastScreen SA website.

BreastScreen SA has 9 fixed screening clinics in metropolitan Adelaide, including clinics in Aldinga and Mount Barker, and 3 mobile screening units that travel to more than 40 locations across South Australia every 2 years.

In March 2025, the mobile screening units are visiting Berri, Cleve, Kimba and Gawler. Find out more about upcoming mobile locations.

Women aged over 40 are encouraged to make a free appointment online at www.breastscreen.sa.gov.au or by calling 13 20 50. Women do not require a doctor’s referral to book.

Published on: March 17, 2025