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Mammography

In addition to regular breast exams by your physician, as well as breast self-exams, the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology recommend that all women age 40 and over get a yearly mammogram screening. Women at increased risk should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of starting mammograms when they are younger, having additional tests (such as breast ultrasound or MRI) or having more frequent exams.

Mammogram

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Mammograms do not cure cancer, but they can save lives by finding cancer early when it is at its most treatable stage. The entire procedure usually takes about 15 minutes. You do not need a physician’s order to get a routine screening mammogram. Mammograms are covered by most insurance plans. If you have no insurance or are underinsured, and cannot otherwise afford a mammogram, financial assistance programs are available.

How to prepare for your mammogram

Before your mammogram

Do not use powder or powdered deodorant in the underarm area or on your breasts. This could create misleading examination results. If you are pregnant, tell the technologist before proceeding with the examination. You will be asked to undress from the waist up for the mammogram, so it may be more comfortable for you to wear slacks or a skirt with a blouse or sweater rather than a dress. If you experience discomfort during mammograms, taking an over-the-counter pain medication such as Advil or Tylenol about an hour before the procedure may help.

During your mammogram

Because women desire privacy during the exam, professional teams consisting of women only operate the mammography equipment. During the procedure, an experienced technologist specially trained in breast imaging will position each breast between two plates where it is compressed in order to take an X-ray image. The exposure to radiation is kept to a minimum. For some women, the pressure on the breasts during a mammogram can cause discomfort, but it is necessary in order to ensure an accurate and safe X-ray. Two views (or more) are taken of each breast. During the X-ray exposure, you will be asked to hold your breath and remain still. The entire process usually takes approximately 15 minutes.

After your mammogram

After your mammogram has been reviewed by our radiologist, your personal physician will receive a report of the findings. A letter will be sent to you stating the results of your exam, whether it is normal, requires additional views or if you need to contact your physician.

If you are asked to return for additional X-ray views, don’t panic. Although the technologist checks your films for quality before you leave, she does not interpret them. The radiologist may ask for an additional X-ray view to more clearly see the breast tissue.

You may experience some bruising or discomfort after your exam. If for some reason this bruising does not decrease in a few days, contact your physician.