Mammograms
Written by Claire Johnson
What is a mammogram?
Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Regular mammograms can find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt by yourself. Usually, a woman starts having mammograms around 50 years of age, but if there is a suspicion of a problem, or a history of Breast Cancer in the family this can be brought forward to an earlier age by a doctor.
How is a mammogram done?
A specially trained nurse will help you to place your breast on a plastic plate, in front of a special breast X-ray machine. Another plate will firmly press your breast from above this is adjusted manually by the nurse for the last part to ensure that the pressure is correct. The plates will flatten the breast, holding it still while the X-rays are being taken. You will feel some pressure, it lasts for a minute or so each side. The steps are repeated to make a side view of the breast. The other breast will be X-rayed in the same way. You will then wait while the X-rays are checked to make sure the pictures do not need to be redone. Keep in mind that the specialist Nurse cannot tell you the results of your mammogram. Each woman’s mammogram may look a little different because all breasts are a little different.
What does having a mammogram feel like?
Some women find it painful. A mammogram takes only a few moments, though, and the discomfort is over very soon. What you feel depends on the skill of the technologist, the size of your breasts, and how much they need to be pressed. Your breasts may be more sensitive if you are about to get or have your period, or if you have already had surgery on the breast. A doctor or consultant with special training, called a radiologist, will look at the X-ray for early signs of breast cancer or other problems.
Tips for Getting your mammogram
Try not to have your mammogram the week before you get your period or during your period. Your breasts may be tender or swollen at that point.
On the day of your mammogram, don’t wear deodorant, perfume, or powder. These products can show up as white spots on the X-ray.
Some women prefer to wear a top with a skirt or pants, instead of a dress. You will need to undress from your waist up for the mammogram.
When will I get the results of my mammogram?
You will normally get the results within a few weeks, although it depends on the department. A radiologist firstly reads your mammogram and then reports the results back to you and your doctor by post. If there is a concern, you will hear from the mammography department earlier, most likely by post, asking you to return for a second appointment. Contact your health care provider or the mammography facility if you do not receive a report of your results within 30 days.
What happens if my mammogram is abnormal?
An abnormal mammogram does not always mean that there is Cancer present, but you will need to have an additional clinical mammogram. You may also be required to have to have a scan on the day and possibly a biopsy may be recommended at the same time. Upon the results of these you could be referred to a Breast Care Consultant or a Surgeon. It does not necessarily mean you have cancer or need surgery. But these doctors are experts in diagnosing breast problems.
Please note, we are not medical professionals, if you have concerns please contact your doctor/health care provider.