Women's and Breast Imaging

08/12/2025

Some days remind us to pause, breathe, and notice the small things that quietly support us. Choosing gratitude helps ground us in what’s going well, even in busy seasons. 🌅💛

If this resonates with you, share one thing you’re thankful for today and spread a little light.
Disclaimer: This post is for general reflection only and not medical or health advice.

05/12/2025

05/12/2025

Ever wondered what people ask most about mammograms? 💗

Here are clear, evidence-based answers to help you feel informed and supported.

Disclaimer: This information is general only and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with a qualified health professional for guidance specific to you.

✨ If you have questions about your breast health, speak with your GP or trusted healthcare provider.

03/12/2025

Nine years ago today at RSNA 2016, I met Dr Nancy Cappello — a remarkable woman whose advocacy changed the way the world understands breast density.

She created the Are You Dense? movement and fought so women would not be left in the dark about their breast density and its impact on screening. We connected instantly because we shared the same mission for women’s health.

Nancy has since passed away, but her message continues.
I still carry the pink tags she gave me — reminders of courage, advocacy, and why this work matters.

In gratitude and remembrance. 💗

01/12/2025

✨ Have you noticed how the smallest moments can change the way a day feels? ✨

Joy doesn’t always arrive with noise or celebration. Sometimes it’s tucked into everyday routines, shared smiles, warm sunlight, or a quiet pause that feels just right. 🌞💛

The more we notice these gentle moments, the more we realise they’ve been there all along. 🌼

Disclaimer: This content is for general reflection only and does not provide personal or clinical advice. For individual concerns, please seek guidance from a qualified health professional.

29/11/2025

Feeling grateful today for the small moments that ground us and remind us why we do what we do. Practising gratitude can be a simple way to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most. 🤍

If you’re looking for reliable, evidence-based information or support, please reach out to a registered health professional who can guide you based on your individual needs.

✨ What’s one thing you’re grateful for today? Share below.

28/11/2025

“Has anyone ever explained what breast density actually means?”

It’s a question I frequently discuss during breast imaging consultations.

Many people tell me:

“They said nothing could be seen because my breasts are dense.”

While understandable, this statement doesn’t capture the full picture.

What is breast density?
Breast density describes the proportion of:
• Glandular tissue
• Fibrous (connective) tissue
• Fat

Breasts with higher density contain more glandular and fibrous tissue and less fat.

This is a normal anatomical variation, not a medical condition.

Why it is relevant in imaging
Dense tissue appears white on a mammogram, similar to many benign and potentially concerning findings.

This can make interpretation more challenging, so additional or different imaging may be considered depending on an individual’s circumstances and clinical assessment.

Options that may be recommended, where appropriate, can include:
• Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (3D mammography)
• Supplemental breast ultrasound
• Clinical breast examination
• In selected cases, Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM)

These tools may assist clinicians in evaluating breast tissue when density is present.

Educational information only.
This content is general in nature, aligns with current professional standards, and is not tailored to any individual.
It does not replace medical advice.
Patients should consult a qualified healthcare professional for assessment and personalised recommendations.

26/11/2025

Noticed a new breast change? 🤍

Breast cysts are common fluid-filled changes and often harmless but any new lump or shift deserves professional attention.

Tenderness, swelling, or something that feels “different” is worth acknowledging. Safety and screening 🩻 help clarify what you’re feeling, with imaging recommended when appropriate.

Some cysts settle on their own, while others may be managed by a qualified clinician.

Disclaimer: General information only. Please seek personalised advice from a registered health professional.

24/11/2025

Being proactive about your health can offer reassurance and clarity. Regular conversations with your healthcare team help ensure you’re informed and supported every step of the way.

💬 If your doctor has advised any imaging, follow their guidance when the time feels right.

21/11/2025

Small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference in supporting everyday wellbeing. From balanced nutrition to regular movement and routine check-ups, these simple practices can help you feel more grounded and empowered in your day-to-day life. 💛

Disclaimer: This post is for general information only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with your qualified health practitioner for guidance specific to your needs.

21/11/2025

📣 New Breast Density Guidance Released Today — Here’s What It Means for You

🔥 “I’ve been told I have dense breasts… do I need extra imaging?”
If you’ve ever wondered this, you’re not alone — and today, there’s finally clear national guidance to help.

📖 More women are now being told about their breast density when they receive their mammogram results. Naturally, many feel confused or worried:

Does this mean I’m at higher risk?
Will a mammogram miss something?
Do I need ultrasound or something else?
Until today, there hasn’t been much clear guidance.

The Department of Health has just released the Breast Density GP Guidance — a national, evidence-based resource created to help women and their doctors understand what breast density means and when extra imaging is recommended.

(This guidance was endorsed in November 2025 by the BreastScreen Australia Clinical Advisory Group, which I’m honoured to be part of.)

💡 Key Things You Should Know (KTA):

1️⃣ Dense breasts are common and normal.
Many women aged 40–50 fall into BI-RADS c or d.

2️⃣ Dense tissue can make mammograms harder to read.
This is called the “masking effect.” It doesn’t mean something is wrong — it just means some cancers may be harder to see.

3️⃣ Dense breasts slightly increase breast cancer risk.
But density is just one of many risk factors.

4️⃣ Not everyone with dense breasts needs extra imaging.
The new guidance helps doctors decide when:

a mammogram alone is appropriate,
when an ultrasound or 3D mammogram may help,
or when more advanced options like CEM may be recommended.
5️⃣ Breast density cannot be felt or checked by hand.
It can only be seen on a mammogram.

🔗 Full guidance here:
https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/breastscreen-australia-program/health-professionals/breast-density-information-for-gps

🏥 WHAT THIS MEANS FOR WOMEN IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA (WBI Cottesloe & Murdoch):

At WBI Cottesloe and WBI Murdoch, we provide:

3D mammography (DBT)
Breast ultrasound
Volpara™ breast density scoring
Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM — Murdoch only)
Same-day FNA/core biopsy when clinically indicated
Our team is here to help you understand your breast density, ease confusion, and guide you through the screening pathway that’s right for you.

If you’ve received a letter about breast density and feel unsure about what it means, speak with your GP — and feel free to bring your results with you to your WBI appointment.

We’re here to support you with evidence-based, compassionate breast care.

19/11/2025

✨ Understanding your options can help you feel more informed and supported. Breast biopsy procedures are performed to collect small tissue samples, which assist your healthcare team in guiding clinical decisions.

Each approach is recommended based on your individual circumstances, and your referring practitioner will advise what’s most appropriate for you. 🩺

If you have questions about biopsy types or what to expect, your healthcare provider is the best source of personalised guidance. 💛

🔍 This information is general and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare practitioner for advice that’s right for you.

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