Mammograms can help detect breast cancer, cysts, and calcium deposits in your breast. Though the test may cause slight discomfort, it only lasts about 20 minutes.
A mammogram is an X-ray of your breast. It’s a screening tool used to detect breast cancer. Together with regular clinical exams and monthly breast self-examinations, mammograms are a key element in the early diagnosis of breast cancer.
Even though thinking about getting one might make you uncomfortable, annual mammograms are important after 40 years of age.
If your doctor orders a mammogram as a routine test to check for cancer or other changes, it’s known as a screening mammogram. During this test, a technician will use a machine to record several images of your breast.
Your doctor will then order a diagnostic mammogram if you have a lump or any other symptom of breast cancer. You’ll probably need a diagnostic mammogram if you have breast implants.
Diagnostic mammograms are more extensive than screening mammograms. They typically require more X-rays to get views of your breast from multiple positions. Your radiologist may also magnify any areas of concern.
Some experts, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the
The ACS recommends annual screening for those 45 through 54.
If you have a personal or family history of breast cancer, your doctor may recommend that you:
- start screenings earlier
- have more frequent screenings
- use additional diagnostic tools
Most people feel some discomfort when their breasts are compressed during a mammogram. Your exact experience will depend on a few unique factors, such as:
- breast size
- breast tenderness related to an expected upcoming period
- the technician’s skill set
Any pain or discomfort you feel should be short-lived. The procedure takes about
You’ll need to follow certain guidelines on the day of your mammography appointment. You should
- deodorants
- antiperspirants
- body powders
- perfumes
- ointments, creams, or lotions on your breasts or underarms
Before the exam, be sure to tell your radiologist if you’re pregnant or nursing. In general, you will not be able to receive a screening mammogram at this time. But if necessary, your doctor can order other screening methods, such as an ultrasound.
After you undress from the waist up and take off any necklaces, a technician will give you a smock or gown that ties in the front. Depending on the testing facility, you may either stand or sit while the images are taken.
Each breast fits onto a flat X-ray plate. A compressor will push the breast down to flatten the tissue. This provides a clearer picture of the breast.
You might have to hold your breath for each picture. You may feel a small amount of pressure or discomfort, but it’s usually very brief.
During the process, your doctor will review the images as they are made. Digital mammograms are commonly used. These are especially helpful if you’re younger than 50 years old. People in this age group typically have denser breasts than those who are older.
Your doctor may order additional images that show different views if something is unclear or needs further attention. This happens quite frequently and is considered routine.
Yes, mammograms are safe.
Like any other type of X-ray, mammograms involve exposure to a very small amount of radiation. But the risk from this exposure is extremely low.
If you’re
If you’re over 40 years old and have health insurance, your insurance will likely cover the cost of a mammogram.
You can contact your insurance provider to learn which types of mammograms are covered and whether you’ll need to pay any out-of-pocket costs.
If you don’t have health insurance or if your coverage does not include mammograms, you can access free or low cost mammograms through services such as the
You can also find discounted mammograms every October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month through the
If possible, get this type of screening in a facility that specializes in mammograms. Those accredited by the American College of Radiology have technicians who are specially trained in mammography. These facilities use equipment that meets specific standards and is inspected regularly.
Consider finding a facility that also does additional testing, such as MRI, ultrasound, and other imaging procedures, in case you need further screening.
For annual mammograms, try to use the same facility every year if possible. This makes it easier to compare the results from year to year.
Consider bringing the old images with you if you’re visiting a new facility for the first time and have had prior mammograms.
The Breast Imaging Reporting and Database System is a national diagnostic system for reading mammograms.
This system has seven categories, ranging from zero to six. Each category describes whether additional images are necessary and has its own follow-up plan. Actions on the follow-up plan may include:
- gathering additional images
- finding previous mammogram images for comparison
- continuing regular screenings
- making an appointment for a follow-up in 6 months
- performing a biopsy
Images from a mammogram can help doctors find calcifications, or calcium deposits, in your breasts. The test can also find cysts — which may come and go normally during some people’s menstrual cycles — and any cancerous or benign (noncancerous) lumps.
Your doctor will review your results and explain the next steps to you during a follow-up appointment.
Getting a mammogram involves taking an X-ray image of your breast. The resulting images can help doctors find calcium deposits, cysts, or cancer in your breasts.
You should avoid applying any substances to your underarms on the day of your mammogram. You can expect to feel slight discomfort during this short, minimally invasive test.
Sometimes your doctor may order more tests after your mammogram, such as an ultrasound or MRI.
Certain facilities have technicians who specialize in performing mammograms. Talk with your doctor or look at the American College of Radiology website if you’re considering getting one.