Due to the prevalence of breast cancer in women, regular mammograms are an excellent way to stay on top of your breast and overall health. Roughly 12% of women are impacted by breast cancer in their lifetime, and it takes a toll on your physical and emotional well-being. Staying proactive is a necessity as early detection has a major impact on the prognosis of a potential breast cancer diagnosis. Despite being a great step towards your health, many women have fears of the unknown when it comes to getting a mammogram. Below you will find tips for preparing for a mammogram, so you feel fully prepared once your appointment day arrives.

Tips for Preparing for a Mammogram

Talk with your doctor about their recommendations for which facility you should go to as it’s important to find a location that specializes in mammograms. For your own comfort, schedule your mammogram anytime outside of the week before your period. Your breasts will be the most tender around that time and it can cause discomfort during your mammogram.

If this is your first time at the facility you are at, be sure and let them know of any changes or noticeable irregularities in your breasts. The examination is thorough. But this info can help them look deeper into the areas you are talking about to ensure you are healthy. Maybe you have had mammograms before that were not at the same facility. In such a case, be sure and bring all of your medical records related to prior mammograms so the new office can have it on file. If possible, try and go to the same facility each time as it decreases the risk of anything falling through the cracks.

Considerations for Appointment Day

On the day of your exam, wear comfortable clothing as you’ll need to take off your top. Most people opt for pants or a skirt paired with a top so you don’t get too cold once you have to remove your clothing. You should also refrain from wearing deodorant as it can impact your results. Deodorant can show up on the X-rays as white spots and require additional or repeat testing. Again, before your mammogram, talk with your technician or doctor about changes or issues you noticed with your breasts. One of the major things to tell your doctor is if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as this is an important factor for the to know prior to testing.

Once you are ready for your actual mammogram, you’ll need to undress, but you will be given a wrap cover. A mammogram technician will position your breasts to allow for optimal results. You and the technician will be the only ones in the room for privacy purposes. Once your breasts are on the plate, they will be compressed with a plate on the top as well. A few pictures will be taken and you’ll require repositioning, but the entire process takes roughly twenty minutes. For those who have larger breasts or breast implants, more picture are required due to the mass. You may experience some discomfort, but it is only for a short time. Stay in communication with the technician if you experience anything beyond discomfort as pain is not normal.

Post-Mammogram Results

The technician should provide you with results at the appointment. Or they provide you with a time frame for hearing back from them. It’s important to get your results and any follow-up testing required. Once you get your results, it’s always advisable to talk with your doctor. We also suggest you get a second opinion if you are concerned about anything that came up. If you are not in the same location as a specialist you want to work with in regard to a second opinion, telemammography is a great option. As long as you have your imaging, you can have anyone provide you with their expert opinion on your results.

Breast Imaging Interpretations

After you are ready, follow these tips for preparing for your mammogram. If you would like interpretation for your breast exam, contact BreastGYN Imagers. They specialize in the professional interpretation of breast and gynecological imaging, both onsite and remotely. Their mission is to provide you with the best services and they are passionate about a patient-centered care approach. If you are considering getting more information about your exam, a breast imaging interpretation can be one of the best things you do for your long-term health. Contact BreastGYN Imagers for an appointment!