A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray picture of your breast which is the best testto find breast cancer early, often before you or your doctor can feel a lump.
Why is it Important?
- Early Detection: Finding cancer early makes treatment easier and more successful.
- Saves Lives: Regular screening mammograms can reduce the risk of dying from breast cancer.
- Peace of Mind: Most women have normal results.
Who Should Get Screened?
- Most Women: Guidelines vary slightly, but screening typically starts between ages 40 and 50 years. Talk to your gynaecologist about when you should start and how often you should be screened (usually every 1-2 years).
- Higher Risk? If you have a strong family history or certain genetic changes (like BRCA), you may need to start earlier or have extra tests (like MRI). Discuss your risk with your doctor.
What Happens During the Test?
You’ll Undress: From the waist up (you’ll be given a gown).
Positioning: A radiographer will place your breast on a special plate.
Compression: Another plate will gently press down on your breast for a few seconds. This flattens the breast to get a clear picture and uses less radiation.Some women find it briefly uncomfortable or slightly painful, but it only lasts seconds. Tell the radiographer if it’s too painful. Compression is vital for a good image.
Pictures Taken: Usually 2 pictures per breast (top-to-bottom and side-to-side).
Duration: The whole appointment takes about 20-30 minutes. The actual compression for each picture is just seconds.
How to Prepare
- Schedule Wisely: Avoid the week before your period if your breasts are usually tender then.
- Skip Products: Don’t use deodorant, antiperspirant, talcum powder, or lotion on your breasts or underarms on the day. These can show up on the X-ray.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: A two-piece outfit (top and bottom) is easiest.
- Bring Previous Images: If you had mammograms elsewhere, bring them or ensure they’ve been sent to the screening centre.
After the Mammogram
- Results: Your results will be sent to you and your doctor, usually within a few weeks.
- Normal Result (Most Common): This means no signs of cancer were found. Continue regular screening as advised.
- Recall (Less Common): You might be asked back for more tests (extra mammogram pictures, ultrasound, or biopsy). This DOES NOT mean you have cancer. Most recalls find nothing serious, but it’s important to check thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Does it hurt?
A: You will feel pressure and possibly brief discomfort. Deep breathing can help. Discomfort usually fades quickly.
Q: Is the radiation safe?
A: The dose is very low and the benefits of finding cancer early far outweigh the tiny risk from radiation.
Q: Are mammograms effective for women with dense breasts?
A: Dense breast tissue can make cancers harder to see on a mammogram and is also a risk factor. You may need extra screening (like ultrasound). You will be told if you have dense breasts.
Q: Do I still need mammograms if I do self-exams?
A: Yes! Self-exams help you know your breasts, but mammograms can find cancers too small to feel.
Q: What if I have breast implants?
A: Tell the screening centre when you book. Special techniques are used, and you may need extra pictures.
eGynaecologist Advice
- You should be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, and report any new changes (lump, dimpling, nipple discharge, pain) to your doctor right away – don’t wait for your next screening.
- Regular mammograms are one of the most important steps you can take for your breast health, and you must schedule your mammogram when it’s due, asearly detection is key.
