A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It can reveal tumors too small to be felt and can show other changes in the breast that doctors believe may suggest cancer.
Consider the following suggestions when preparing for your mammograms.
During a mammogram, the breast is pressed between two plates. Some pressure, lasting only a few seconds, is applied to get a clear picture. Two X-rays are taken of each breast, one from the top and one from the side.
Although some women are concerned about radiation exposure, the risk is very small and the benefits of mammography far outweigh any risks. A clinical breast examination by a certified mammography technologist is available. Also, after the mammogram has been taken, you may view a video on breast self-examination.
At the time of the mammogram appointment, the technologist will ask you for your personal history relating to breast disease. This information will be used by the radiologist (a physician specially trained to read X-rays, including mammograms) when interpreting the mammography films. You should expect to be asked the following questions:
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