How To Prepare for a Mammogram
The American Cancer Society recommends that all women 40 and over have a yearly screening mammogram. A screening mammogram is done on women who are asymptomatic, i.e. not currently experiencing any breast problem or symptoms such as nipple discharge, lump, or pain in the breast. This exam consists of two images of both breasts in order to detect abnormalities that might indicate the presence of breast cancer.
Patients might be recalled for additional imaging of the breasts depending on what the radiologist sees on the mammogram. A physician’s order is not necessary for screening mammogram. However, any treatment should be reported to your primary care physician or OB-Gyn. We ask that patients supply us with a physician’s name to send their report.
With the technology of digital mammography, images are obtained faster and can be manipulated to help identify abnormalities in the breast that might otherwise be missed on conventional mammograms.
Benefits of Digital Mammography
Diagnostic mammogram is performed on a patient who presents with a clinical complaint in the breast, such as a lump, pain, or discharge from the nipple. A physician referral is required for all diagnostic mammograms.
- LOWER RADIATION DOSES
- HIGHER SENSITIVITY TO ABNORMALITIES
- INCREASED IMAGE QUALITY
During the course of any mammogram, it is important to obtain good quality images. This is achieved by allowing the technologist to compress your breast; allowing the breast tissue to be spread out which can facilitate identifying abnormalities.
However, the technologist will work closely with you to reach the level of compression that you can tolerate. The breast compression only lasts for seconds.
How to prepare for your imaging
Please be sure to read the information below so you are aware of what to expect during your visit and understand how to be prepared.
- Allow 30 minutes for the exam.
- Please indicate whether you have breast implants.
- You may want to wear a two-piece outfit so you can undress from the waist up.
- Do not use perfumes, oils, powders, or deodorants on or around the breast area the day of the exam.
- Caffeine can be avoided 24 hours prior to your exam to decrease the sensitivity of breast tissue.
- For DIAGNOSTIC Patients Only: If your most recent mammogram was performed at another hospital or facility, those films will be needed during your appointment for comparison purposes. Please make arrangements to have a CD of your prior images sent to our office ahead of time, or you may bring them with you to your appointment.
- If you are pregnant, please call to notify our office prior to your appointment.
Breast Ultrasound
Our radiologists may ask for a breast ultrasound in conjunction with a mammogram. This exam uses sound waves to identify abnormalities in the breast and does not require radiation. The purpose of this test is to distinguish between a cyst and a solid mass. While you are in the department the radiologist will let you know your results at the time of the exam.
Some women, especially younger women, may come directly to us if they find a mass. Most of these cases tend to be benign and require no intervention, however, it is always a good idea to check with a doctor to make sure that is the case.
Your Breast Health Begins Here
Women's Imaging Specialists exists to provide care to all those who come to us, and it is a privilege for us to participate in the care of our patients. Give us a call and take charge of your health.