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First week after a breast cancer diagnosis: what to do
In the first week, you do not need to decide anything big. Get the key facts in writing, pick one person to help you, and write down your questions for your care team. Most treatment decisions happen over the following weeks, with your team, once all your results are in.
What you can ignore for now
- Deciding on treatment before you have your full results.
- Reading everything online. Pick one or two trusted sources.
- Telling everyone. You choose who, and when.
Day 1 to 2: get the facts in writing
Ask your team (or check your letter or portal) for:
- The exact type of breast cancer and, if known, the stage.
- Receptor status, such as HER2, oestrogen and progesterone. These shape treatment options.
- Which tests are still to come, and when you will have the results.
- The name and direct number of your nurse specialist or main contact.
- The number to call out of hours if something worries you.
Day 2 to 4: choose your people
- One support person who comes to appointments and takes notes. Their only job is to write things down.
- One person for practical help: meals, lifts, children, work messages.
- Work and money: you do not have to settle anything this week. Ask whether your hospital has a social worker or financial advice service.
Day 3 to 5: start your question list
Keep one running list, most important question first. Good starters:
- What are the next steps and when do they happen?
- What decisions will I need to make, and by when?
- Is there anything I should avoid doing or taking in the meantime?
- Who can I talk to if I feel overwhelmed?
More ideas: 10 questions to ask your oncologist.
Day 5 to 7: start a simple record
Write a few lines each evening: how you feel, how strong from 0 to 10, what helped, and any new question. This record becomes useful at every appointment. See the symptom diary template.
Looking after yourself
Sleep and eating may be disrupted, and strong emotions are common. Telling your team how you are coping is part of the care they can offer, and many hospitals have counsellors and peer support lines.
Urgent first. Any symptom your team told you to report right away should be reported right away. Use the number you were given, day or night.
If you were diagnosed young, or have young children
Ask your team about fertility questions before treatment starts, and about support for talking with children. Both can be raised in the first appointments.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do first after a breast cancer diagnosis?
Get the key facts in writing (type, stage, receptor status, next tests), choose one person to come with you, and write down your questions.
Do I need to make treatment decisions this week?
Usually not. Treatment plans are typically made after all test results are in. Ask your team about the timeline.
Who should I tell?
Whoever you choose, when you are ready. One support person for appointments is a good start.
Is it normal to feel numb or overwhelmed?
Many people do. Tell your team how you are coping, they can point you to support.
For information only, not medical advice. Mima does not give medical advice and does not replace your care team. This page is for information only, not medical advice.