No, the ultrasound is painless. You may feel slight pressure as the transducer moves across your breast, but it should not cause discomfort.
A breast ultrasound can help identify suspicious areas and differentiate between cysts and solid masses, but it cannot confirm cancer on its own. If a suspicious mass is detected, a biopsy may be recommended for a definitive diagnosis.
Unlike mammograms, which use X-rays, breast ultrasounds use sound waves to create images. Ultrasounds are particularly useful for evaluating dense breast tissue and guiding biopsies, while mammograms are more effective at detecting calcifications and very small tumors.
In most cases, the results are available shortly after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you and explain any further steps or tests that may be needed.