Mammograms are special X-rays designed to uncover cancerous changes in breast tissue. They may be used either to detect these changes before any outward symptoms develop or to provide further information if symptoms are already present. Women scheduled for a mammogram screening will likely benefit from learning the best way to prepare for the process.
Prior to Your Mammogram
According to the American Cancer Society, prior to scheduling your mammogram, you should provide your doctor with as much information as possible about your known breast health. This includes the results of any previous breast exams, as well as your personal and family medical history. In addition, you will need to tell your doctor about any previous surgeries or history of hormone use. If you are still menstruating, try not to schedule your mammogram for the days just prior to your period.
On The Day of Your Exam
Your preparations for the day of your mammogram will vary according to several factors. If you are having your exam done at a facility you have never used before, make sure to bring any records you have of any previous breast exams, including mammograms and biopsies. If possible, bring any mammogram films you have with you, or have them sent in advance. Make sure any facility you use specializes in mammograms and has an appropriately trained staff. All properly credentialed facilities have a certificate from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stating they meet accepted standards for quality and safety. If you do not see this certificate posted, ask someone to show it to you.
Do not wear deodorant or antiperspirant on the day of your exam, since many of these products can produce false-positive results on your mammogram images. If you normally wear dresses, you may find it more convenient to wear a skirt or pants to minimize your personal exposure at the facility. Before your exam begins, make sure to tell the person performing your procedure about any problems or symptoms you have noticed.
During Your Mammogram
During your procedure, a trained technician will place your breast on a special platform that holds your breast in place and compresses and spreads it with a paddle. This is done to minimize the chances that small changes in your breast tissue will be missed during the exam. Additionally, spreading your breast allows the technician to use lower amounts of radiation to gather an accurate images, and diminishes potential scattering of X-rays that can reduce the sharpness of the mammogram. In some cases, compression of breast tissue causes pain or discomfort. Tell your technician if this is true for you. Your technician will take multiple images of your breast, and you will need to stay as still as possible during the procedure.
Results of Testing
Typically, a mammogram takes about 20 to 30 minutes. After your procedure is complete, the results will be viewed by a doctor who specializes in interpreting radiological images (radiologist), who will then convey his findings to your primary care physician. Your testing facility will also send notice of your results.
Tags: your breast, your mammogram, breast tissue, your procedure, breast exams
