Breast Health, Fertility & Early Detection: BIV x Knocked Up
An important conversation for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Breast Imaging Victoria is proud to partner with Knocked Up for an important conversation exploring breast cancer, fertility, IVF, screening and early detection.
Knocked Up is a podcast that tackles the realities of fertility, pregnancy, parenthood and women’s health, bringing expert voices and real conversations to topics that can sometimes feel difficult, overwhelming or simply not talked about enough.
For Breast Imaging Victoria, the collaboration was a natural fit.
Breast health and reproductive health are deeply connected parts of women’s healthcare — and conversations about one shouldn’t happen in isolation from the other.
For some women, questions around fertility preservation, IVF or starting a family can also raise important questions about personal and family history of breast cancer, breast cancer risk, screening and what imaging may be appropriate.
That’s why we wanted to help bring these conversations into the open.
Why does early detection matter?
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women, and Cancer Australia estimates that around 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer by age 85. In 2025, an estimated 20,336 people in Australia were diagnosed with breast cancer.
The good news is that outcomes have improved significantly. Five-year relative survival for breast cancer in Australia increased from 75% in 1987–1991 to 93% in 2017–2021.
Finding breast cancer early can provide more treatment options and the best chance of successful treatment.
But early detection isn't just about mammograms.
Being breast aware means understanding what is normal for you and speaking with your GP if you notice a new or unusual change. Breast awareness is important at every age, even if you have regular mammograms.
So, when was your last mammogram?
There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to breast imaging. Your appropriate screening or diagnostic pathway can depend on your age, symptoms, family history, breast cancer risk and other individual factors.
Mammography can detect breast cancers that are too small to feel, while other imaging modalities — including ultrasound and Contrast-Enhanced Mammography (CEM) — may be recommended depending on your individual circumstances.
And if you're younger, don't assume breast cancer isn't something you need to think about. While breast cancer is more common with increasing age, Cancer Australia estimates that 1,035 women aged 20–39 were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2025.
That's why understanding your own risk and knowing when to speak to your doctor matters.
Listen to the conversation
We’re proud to support Knocked Up in bringing this important conversation to a wider audience.
Listen to the episode to hear more about breast cancer, fertility, IVF, screening and early detection.
And when you're finished listening, take a moment to ask yourself:
When was your last breast check — and do you know what the right screening or imaging pathway is for you?
If you're unsure, start the conversation with your GP or healthcare professional.
