What does a core needle biopsy feel like and how to manage anxiety?

They numb you up before doing the biopsy so you don’t feel anything painful, just feels like touching you. Speak up if you feel anything painful and they will give you more lidocaine. After it’s done you will be a little bruised and sore. Just like a bad bump. The bruising lasted about 10 days for me. My primary dr gave me a prescription for diazepam for anxiety. I also have claustrophobia so use it for MRI and Pet scans. My lymph biopsy was worse than breast but very tolerable - and my pain tolerance is low. You can do this!💕🙏

No pain. You will be numb. A little sore and bruised afterward. You got this!!

I have big breasts, and had a core biopsy on 10/8. Did not even need acetaminophen. Also, virtually no bruising, even though I had been warned. I did not even ice afterwards ('cuz I had to come home and work), yet still was fine.

My experience was the same as Amy’s above. No pain. No bruising. The staff was great about keeping me engaged in conversation while the biopsy was being done so I was focused on the convo not what was going on.

Just breathe and try to relax when they do it.

Core needle biopsies can cause some discomfort, but many people find the procedure more manageable than expected, especially with local numbing medication. Managing pre-procedure anxiety through deep breathing exercises, bringing a support person if allowed, and discussing pain management options with the medical team can really help make the experience easier.