Sometimes when women find they have one of the mutations, they consider mastectomy. Or do more frequent mammograms. But as far as I know, these are the only changes in treatment that might be offered if it turns out you have a mutation. Genetic testing is a very personal issue and requires careful consideration. Some people decide to get tested, and some people don't. I think you have questions that are best answered by a doctor or genetic counselor. They can better tell you what treatments might be available if it turns out you test positive. In addition, the test will be more informative if your aunts who had breast cancer also get tested--are they still alive? Then the specific mutation they had can be tested for in your DNA. Without this information, the test is more of a shot in the dark but can still be informative if you have one of the most common mutations. If your aunts had a mutation that is not one of the most common ones, they won't routinely test for that. So if you really want the test, your aunts' participation would be helpful too.

Salukigirl, I was afraid for years and years to have a mammogram because my breasts are very sensitive and I heard the procedure was so painful. When I finally had a mammogram, it was not nearly as painful as I had feared. Yes, it hurts, but not as much as I imagined. And then you get the reassurance that your breasts are clear. Please don't let the fear of a painful procedure keep you from getting a mammogram if you need one.