If you are, or think you may be pregnant, please inform the technologist.
Your doctor has asked that you have a mammogram. This will help answer some of the most common questions. Please notify us if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.
What is a mammogram?
It is a method of examining the breasts by using low dose x-rays. This simple, painless procedure helps to detect tumors and cysts which may be too small to be felt during a manual breast exam. This procedure will be performed by a technologist certified in mammography.
Preparation
Please do not use any powder, creams or deodorants before your mammogram. These may interfere with the accuracy of the x-rays.
What happens during mammography?
You will be asked to undress from the waist up and remove jewelry from the area to be x-rayed. You will be given a front-opening gown to wear. You will stand in front of the machine and your breasts will be x-rayed, one at a time. Compression, using two plastic plates, will help flatten the breast so that the best possible exam can be achieved with the lowest dose of radiation. You will be asked to wait a few minutes while the films are developed and shown to a radiologist.
Is there any discomfort?
The compression of the breast may cause temporary discomfort. To minimize this, the exam should be scheduled for the week following menstruation when the breasts are their smallest and least tender. The discomfort will be relieved as soon as compression is released.
How long will it take?
The entire exam is usually completed in 15 – 20 minutes.
When will the results be available?
Your physician will receive a report in approximately 2 days.
The American Cancer Society Recommends:
- An initial mammogram between age 35 – 39 as a baseline.
- Age 40 – 50 – every 1 – 2 years.
- Annually after age 50.
- Women who have had breast cancer or have a mother/sister who had breast cancer may need mammography more frequently or beginning at a younger age.
- Mammography generally is not recommended for women under age 30.
Monthly self breast exams are also highly recommended. Someone on our staff would be happy to demonstrate this if you need assistance.
Thank you for choosing to have your examination at Midstate Radiology Associates, LLC. We hope this has been helpful, but should you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to call us at 203-694-8405.
