Mammograms are useful for early diagnosis of breast cancer and reduce mortality from breast cancer. A mammogram is a radiological study that uses X-rays to scan for symptoms of breast cancer. Regular mammogram scans are an important part of maintaining a woman's health. There are two types of mammograms that are performed routinely. The first type is a mammogram scan which is done when there is no suspicion of a bulge or problem in the breast. The second type is a diagnostic mammogram. This mammogram is done when the doctor or you feel there are symptoms in the breast. Further imaging is performed during a diagnostic mammogram. Solid preparation before having a mammogram can help minimize the physical discomfort and emotional stress of this study.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Making the Right Decision
Step 1. See a doctor before getting a mammogram
Even if it's not necessary, it's still recommended that you visit your doctor for a breast exam before having a mammogram. Mammograms will miss 10% of clinically detectable breast cancers.
- Many mammogram facilities allow women over 40 to make appointments without a referral or prescription from a doctor.
- Talk to your doctor about symptoms or signs of breast cancer, such as breast sensitivity to pain, nipple discharge, or a new bulge on self-examination. Tell your doctor all the hormones you are taking. Inform also about your medical history, especially your and family history of breast cancer. The doctor will do a breast exam and look for any abnormalities.
- Follow your doctor's advice on what symptoms, signs, and medical history are best shared with the radiology technologist who will be using X-rays on the day of the mammogram.
- Ask any questions or concerns you have regarding future research.
Step 2. Choose a government-approved mammography facility
Ensure facilities meet specific government quality standards limits regarding equipment, labor and practices.
Do some research on the internet to find a facility near you. You can contact your local medical clinic or health department for a referral
Step 3. Find a mammogram facility experienced in breast implants
Women who have breast implants should get regular mammograms. Breast implants can damage breast tissue and interfere with visualization of abnormalities and delay the diagnosis of breast cancer.
- The technologist will most likely use additional X-rays to maximize the visualization of all breast tissue. Maybe she's trying to manipulate the implant to keep it away from the breast tissue.
- The presence of a capsular contracture or scar around a breast implant can make breast compression from a machine too painful, or impossible. There is a risk of implant rupture. Let the technologist know if you feel too much pain.
Part 2 of 2: Relieve Stress from Mammography
Step 1. Schedule a mammogram in your menstrual period
A mammogram is performed by gradually compressing the breast. A woman's breasts become sensitive before and after her menstrual period. If you are in perimenopause or are still menstruating, it is best to do the study within a week after the end of your period.
Step 2. Get a copy of the previous mammogram
Bring a copy of these films to your appointment. It is your responsibility to ensure that these copies are at the facility on the day of the appointment.
- Your breast X-ray will be analyzed by a certified radiologist. This doctor is trained in evaluating X-rays such as mammograms and provides diagnostic advice based on what he sees on film. The doctor compares the current film with previous films, and looks for new irregularities or whether the size and appearance of the previous abnormality has changed. This comparison is an important part of determining whether what is seen on a mammogram indicates the presence of breast cancer.
- Give the old facility time to make copies of X-ray films. Mammograms can be in the form of film or digital images that are sent directly to a computer workstation. Digital images can be sent electronically, but you need to request them first.
- If your previous mammogram was performed at the same facility, notify the radiology technologist on the day of the appointment. He will pass the information on to the radiologist.
Step 3. Avoid consuming caffeinated foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks
Caffeine can cause breast sensitivity. Do not consume caffeine for 2 weeks before your appointment.
Step 4. Use a commercial pain reliever one hour before the procedure begins
During a mammogram, your breasts will need to be compressed, but this process can be painful. Take precautions to minimize your discomfort.
- Fear of pain or anxiety during the procedure should not be a reason not to get a mammogram. If your anxiety is very great, your doctor can give you anti-anxiety medication before the exam.
- You can take medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin to relieve discomfort. Do not take medication without consulting your doctor first.
- You can take a pain reliever after the study. If you took the drug before the study, make sure the time for the effect of the drug has elapsed before repeating the next dose.
- Breast compressions are harmless. Even distribution of the network has its benefits. Compression makes irregularities more visible. Superior tissue penetration allows for reduced radiation usage. Image blur is also reduced because the network doesn't move much.
Step 5. Do not apply beauty products under the arms or on the breasts
Products, such as deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams, or perfumes can interfere with the quality of X-ray images.
Beauty products can contain metal or calcium particles, which can cause shadows on X-rays. This shade can be misinterpreted to hide abnormal tissue in the breast. Avoid additional tests or the possible missed chance of detecting cancer early
Step 6. Wear the shirt with long pants, shorts, or a skirt
You are required to be naked from the pelvis up, and wear special clothing that opens in the front. Changing clothes will be easier if you just need to take the shirt off.
Step 7. Leave the neck jewelry at home
Anything around the neck will interfere with your breast imaging. Neck jewelry should not be worn at all to prevent the risk of being lost or stolen when removed.
Step 8. Bring your ID and insurance information
You should check in before having a mammogram. Your identity and insurance information must be confirmed. You will also sign some documents.
Ask when and where the mammogram will be done in the facility. Plan your trip so you can arrive early
Step 9. Tell the radiology technologist about your breast medical history
The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that you share your and your family's history of breast cancer, as well as any signs and symptoms in the breast you suspect, such as a bulge or discharge in the breast. It's a good idea to include a previous mammogram as part of the history.
If you tell about specific signs and symptoms in your breast, the technologist can focus on the suspected area of cancer and communicate this with the radiologist. The technologist will also share all the information regarding your and your family's breast cancer history
Step 10. Inform the radiology technologist about any of your physical limitations
The mammogram will last for 30 minutes. You will need to stand up and change positions during this process. Technologists will help if you have a physical disability.
You will be standing in front of an X-ray machine. The technologist will place your breasts on a platform that can be raised and lowered according to your height. Correct positioning of the arms, torso, and head is the key to producing high-quality X-ray images. Finally, the transparent plastic plate will gradually compress the breast. After the breasts are well compressed, you need to stand still and hold your breath. This process will be repeated on the other breast
Tips
- Follow up on your mammogram results. Ask how long it usually takes for the facility to send the mammogram results to the doctor. Call the doctor if you are not contacted.
- Make sure that the results of the mammogram will be sent to you after being sent to the doctor. All your mammogram results should be stored properly.
- Discuss the recommended time to have a mammogram. The time varies depending on the source. For example, in the US, mammogram guidelines from the Preventive Service Task Force recommend that women have a mammogram at age 50 and repeat it every two years. The ACS and other organizations recommend having a mammogram starting at age 40 and repeated every year.
- Talk to your doctor before scheduling a mammogram if you are or think you are pregnant. Pregnant women without symptoms (asymptomatic) should not have a mammogram, unless they are over 40 years of age. Sometimes, pregnant women who are suspected of having symptoms or signs of breast cancer need to have a mammogram. Your doctor will outline the risks (side effects to the fetus) and benefits (a diagnosis of breast cancer is found before it's too late) to help you make an informed decision. According to the ACS, mammograms are quite safe during pregnancy because the amount of radiation used is not much and focuses on the breasts. A lead protector can be placed on your stomach.
- Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer found during pregnancy (1 in 3000 women). Therefore, all breast complaints during pregnancy such as bulge will be evaluated in the same way.
