Breast ultrasound scan

A breast ultrasound scan is a test that uses high frequency sound waves to create a picture of the inside of the breast. 

The ultrasound scanner has a probe that gives off sound waves. The probe looks a bit like a microphone. The sound waves bounce off the tissues in your breast, and the probe picks them up. The probe links to a computer that turns the sound waves into a picture on the screen.

A specialist healthcare professional called a sonographer usually does the test. 

Go to our information about breast cancer

During the scan

You will need to take off your upper clothing, including your bra, and put on a hospital gown. You lie on a couch for the test.

A ​radiologist​ or a specialist called sonographer puts a lubricating gel over your breast, this can sometimes feel cold. The gel helps the probe to slide over your skin to give clear pictures on the screen. You might feel a little pressure when the sonographer moves the probe over your breast. Do tell them if it is uncomfortable. The sonographer may also look at the ​lymph nodes​ in your armpit (axilla).

It can take about 10 to 15 minutes. The sonographer might ask you to move position a few times, bringing your arm up and down.

You can usually have a family member or a friend with you while you have the scan. Just let the sonographer know that someone will be with you.

Possible risks

Breast ultrasound is a very safe test. It doesn’t involve radiation and there are usually no side effects.