Do you need a referral for breast ultrasound?

A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue. A clinician may recommend it to assess a lump, focal pain, nipple change, or an area that needs a closer look after another examination or scan. The referral gives the imaging team the clinical question and helps them choose the appropriate examination. Some centres accept direct bookings, while others require a request from a doctor or another licensed clinician. The requirement can also differ between routine assessment and an urgent appointment.

Contact the imaging centre you plan to use and ask whether a referral is needed. If it is, book an appointment with a family doctor, gynaecologist, breast specialist, or other clinician who can examine you and send the request. Take any previous breast imaging reports if available, and mention pregnancy, breastfeeding, breast implants, or recent surgery because these details can affect the assessment. Do not delay arranging an evaluation simply because a referral process is unclear; the clinic can tell you the next practical step.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for a new breast lump, skin dimpling, a nipple turning inward, bloody nipple discharge, a persistent one-sided change, or redness and swelling with fever. Seek urgent care for severe breast pain with feeling very unwell, rapidly spreading redness, or heavy bleeding after a recent procedure. These signs do not establish a diagnosis, but they should not wait for a routine scan booking.

Ask whether ultrasound is the right first test for your age and breast change, how quickly it should be arranged, whether you need a referral, and when you should expect the report. You can also ask what to do if the scan is inconclusive or the change persists.