Fine needle aspiration is a way of getting some cells from your breast so that they can be looked at under a microscope.

The doctor gets the cells by putting a fine needle through the skin and into the part of the breast that needs to be examined.

What will happen to me during the test?

Your nurse or doctor will explain the test to you, and answer any questions you have. The doctor will then feel your breast to find the area s/he wants to sample.

If the area cannot be felt, the radiologist (X-ray doctor) will need to do the FNA. S/he will use an X-ray or ultrasound machine to find the exact area to be sampled.

If the FNA is to be done using X-ray guidance you will sit in a chair, with your breast held in the X-ray machine while the needle is positioned. Further X-rays will be taken to ensure that the needle is in the right place. This is called stereotactic FNA.

If the FNA is to be done using ultrasound guidance, you will lie on a couch.

Whichever method is used to find the right area, a very thin needle will then be passed into your breast to take a sample of cells.

Sometimes another needle test, known as a core biopsy, may also be needed. For this, a local anaesthetic is used to numb the area. The doctor makes a small cut in the skin and inserts a needle to take a two or three small pieces of tissue from the breast. You will hear a loud click as the samples are taken.

What about afterwards?

After the test you may experience some tenderness. This is quite normal. Taking mild painkillers (such as paracetamol) should help. There may be some bruising around the area. This is normal and should fade as any other bruise would.

You may be more comfortable wearing a good supporting bra in bed for the first couple of nights.

The small dressing applied after the test can be removed the next day.

You can bathe or shower as usual, and may find warm baths soothing.

Will the FNA be painful?

All women are different, and will experience different levels of discomfort during the test. Most women say this test is uncomfortable and compare it to having a blood sample taken from the arm.

When will I get the results?

The sample of cells will be sent to the laboratory for examination. You may be able to get the results on the same day as your test. Your doctor or nurse will make other arrangements with you if this isn't possible.

Where can I get more information?

Remember, your doctors and nurses are there to help you. If you have any questions about your symptoms or your FNA, don't be afraid to ask.