How will a breast cancer (BRCA) gene test feel?

The blood sample for a breast cancer (BRCA) gene test is taken from a vein in your arm. An elastic band is wrapped around your upper arm. It may feel tight. You may feel nothing at all from the needle, or you may feel a quick sting or pinch.

It is common to worry before a BRCA test and while waiting for its results.

The BRCA gene test can be done as a blood test or a saliva test. During the blood test, you will have an elastic band wrapped around your arm and then a small needle will be used to draw blood from one of the veins in the arm. For the saliva test, you will swish mouthwash in your mouth and then spit it into a collection cup. There will be no pain or discomfort for the saliva test.

Both the blood test and saliva tests are equally accurate.