Mammograms are one of the best ways to protect yourself from breast cancer.
Although they can’t stop breast cancer from occurring, this screening often detects cancer before a lump is felt or other symptoms are evident. Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of treating it successfully.
“Mammograms are our best tool for finding breast cancer early,” said Dana Salters, administrative director of oncology for Maury Regional Health. “Early detection is key in treating breast cancer. If you’re a woman 40 years or older, don’t forget to schedule your annual mammogram.”
What happens when you get a mammogram?
On the day of your mammogram, a radiologic technologist with specific training in mammography will escort you to a private dressing area, where you will remove all clothing from the waist up and put on a special gown that opens in the front. The technologist is available to answer any questions you may have about the exam.
During the mammogram, the technologist will instruct you on where to stand in front of an imaging unit. The technologist will place your breasts (one at a time) on a plate while another plate is lowered on top of your breast to compress it while the image is taken. This can be a bit uncomfortable, but the compression only lasts for about 10 to 15 seconds per image. It is important to remain as still as possible, and you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the image is being taken.
“We know mammograms can be uncomfortable for some women. Our highly trained mammography technologists make every effort to make patients as comfortable as possible before and during the exam,” Salters said.
A few images will be taken at different angles, so you will need to repeat this process. The entire screening typically takes less than 15 minutes. Once the technologist has taken all the images needed, you should be ready to get dressed.
How do you prepare for a mammogram?
It’s best to schedule your appointment after your menstrual period since your breasts may be tender just before or during your period.
On the day of your mammogram, don’t apply powder, lotion, cream, deodorant, antiperspirant or perfumes on or around your breasts or underarms. These can show up as spots on the X-ray.
Because you will need to undress from the waist up and put on a special gown, you may want to wear a top with pants or a skirt. Some imaging facilities have full-length robes available for those who need to fully undress.
Tell the technologist about any symptoms you may be experiencing. Also, let them know if you have breast implants, are breastfeeding or think you might be pregnant.
For future mammograms, try to be consistent by going to the same facility so your images can be compared to previous mammograms. If you’re going somewhere new, bring your images from previous facilities or have them sent for comparison.
Schedule your mammogram today
Maury Regional Health offers mammography services at five locations in southern Middle Tennessee, including Maury Regional Women’s Center in Columbia, Lewis Health Center in Hohenwald, Marshall Medical Center in Lewisburg, Wayne Medical Center in Waynesboro and Spring Hill Imaging Center.
Maury Regional Medical Center is accredited by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers by the American College of Surgeons and as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.
For more information, visit MauryRegional.com/Breast-Health.
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Date Last Reviewed: August 17, 2023
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
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