Going for breast screening can be worrying.  For women with learning disabilities there is the added fear of not understanding what is happening.

 

Feelings, information and consent are all addressed in this book.  Ideally, it should be used to prepare women with learning disabilities before they go for breast screening (a mammogram), for further breast screening tests or to increase their general breast awareness.

 

In the first story, Beth experiences a series of events including receiving an invitation letter for screening, deciding whether to go, having the mammogram and getting the results. The second story shows what what happens to Beth when she is recalled for further tests. Lastly, another woman demonstrates how to be aware of changes in one's own breasts.

 

This book is invaluable to supporters and carers, to health and social services staff who provide support for women with learning difficulties and for staff who work in the screening programme.

 

There is a complimentary title about cervical screening, Keeping Healthy 'Down Below', and an equivalent title for men, Looking After My Balls.

 

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"It is difficult to see how anyone who works with learning disabled women on health issues can be without Looking After My Breasts and Keeping Healthy Down Below.  They  tell the story of cervical and breast checks where words cannot reach."

Viewpoint

(Mencap magazine)