What You Need To Know About Mammograms

What Is A Mammogram?

A mammogram is a low dose X-ray of the breast that can detect breast abnormalities, even before they can be felt.

Preparation

Wear no deodorant, talcum powder, ointments or cream on breasts or underarms the day of your exam.  These products may show on the X-rays.  Schedule your mammogram one week after your period ends, if possible.  Your breasts are less tender at that time.

Mammogram Procedure

Your breasts will be positioned and compressed with a compression paddle in at least two different angles.  The compression may be uncomfortable.  Some redness or bruising may occur.  Adequate compression is essential to help find small abnormalities.  Compression also lowers the radiation dose to the breast.

Your Mammogram Report

Your films (X-rays) will be read by a radiologist and a written report will be sent to your physician in a few days.

Your Previous Mammograms

If your most recent mammogram was at another facility, please contact that facility to arrange for your films to be sent to the Center for Breast Health.  These films are important to obtain an accurate reading, and may avoid the need for further additional views.

Additional Views

Occasionally, the radiologist may request more films to assist in reading your exam.  If this occurs, we will contact you and set up an appointment for these additional films. There is no need for alarm.  These films are necessary to better evaluate questionable areas or changes in your breasts.

American Cancer Society Guidelines for Mammograms

• Beginning at age 40, all women should have an annual mammogram.
• Women age 40 and older should have an annual breast examination by a health care professional
• Women ages 20-39 should have a clinical breast examination by a health care professional every 3 years.
• All women should perform breast self-examination on a monthly basis.