Breast Biopsy and Body Autonomy

Facing Uncertainty: A Breast Biopsy and the Power of Self-Knowledge

Last Wednesday, I underwent a breast biopsy for microcalcifications detected on a mammogram. The statistics, which were strongly on my side – 85% chance of nothing, 15% chance of something – still weighed me down. This wasn't my first encounter with these tiny specks; scattered ones were found previously. But this time, they were clustered in a concerning pattern and grew in number between mammograms.

While others assured me a biopsy was a breeze, mine felt intense. The wait, the lingering fear, despite having many good days. But it wasn’t the first time I navigated grey areas of healthcare, and I didn’t like it.

I've always been an active participant in my health. I read reports, ask questions, and even delve into medical research to understand what doctors are saying. Yet, despite my personal advocacy and strength, I've encountered dismissal, even confusion, when I speak about my own anatomy and experience. Thankfully, there are incredible doctors who respect my self-awareness.

The waiting room triggered old wounds – past experiences of being dismissed regarding women's health issues. Grief from past medical losses.

The radiologist who performed my biopsy was lovely and it was reassuring to be in his presence. He showed me pictures of the worrisome cluster on my mammogram – it definitely was something I would've noticed myself. During the procedure, something profound happened. The pressure point where the needle entered felt oddly familiar, a subtle awareness I'd carried for over a year. I mentioned it to the radiologist, hesitant at first.

Here's the incredible part: He validated me. He acknowledged that my doctor wouldn't have felt these tiny abnormalities, and that a diagnostic mammogram was the only way to detect them. But it was possible I sensed them. This simple act of affirmation was powerful.

It highlights the crucial role of doctors who listen and respect a patient's knowledge of their own body. Dismissal can be subtly damaging, taking away autonomy and trust.

Now, we wait. The odds are in my favor, but there's always that "what if." Yet, even in the face of uncertainty, there's a sense of empowerment. Knowing the language of anatomy equips me to advocate for myself and work collaboratively with my providers. This knowledge is power, and I prioritize sharing anatomy and awareness with my students. Shouldn't we understand the incredible vessel we inhabit, just as deeply as we know our favorite sports team?

We may have to live with the uncertainty of not having answers, but through self-knowledge and empowered communication, we can navigate life's uncertainties with greater strength and resilience.