What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray of your breasts. Mammograms can detect an abnormality as early as two years before it can be felt.

A radiologist will review your mammograms looking for densities and irregular breast tissue with finger-like extensions. Sometimes they also see a cluster of microcalcifications, which can be a sign of breast cancer.

The risk of harm from low level radiation used in mammograms is extremely small.

Sometimes abnormal breast changes are not detected by mammograms. Therefore, you should never ignore a lump just because it is not visible on a mammogram. Your mammograms constitute an irreplaceable part of your health history. Being able to compare earlier mammograms with new films helps your local health care provider evaluate areas that may have changed. If you move, take copies of your mammograms with you.

Who should have Mammograms

How often you should have a mammogram depends on your age and individual risk of breast cancer.

Most experts believe that women between the ages of 40 to 49 should have a mammogram every 1 to 2 years. There is some controversy about the schedule for this age group and the recommendations may change.

Women over 50 should have mammograms every year.

Any woman concerned about a change in her breast should immediately see a health care provider.

Women with history of breast cancer in their family should also have special attention relative to their schedule for mammograms.

Mammogram Questions and Answers

The dose of radiation used is minimal and should not create a problem for you. In fact, the benefits far outweigh the risks. Having regular mammograms results in earlier detection and decreases your chance of dying from breast cancer.

How much pain will there be with a mammogram?

You may feel some discomfort when your breast is compressed, but it lasts less than a minute of each film. The compression is done to spread the breast tissue so that any potential abnormalities are more easily seen. The better the compression, the less radiation is delivered to the breast. Usually, four films are taken.

Where should I go for a mammogram?

You should have it at a facility that is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR). This is something you can determine by calling the American Cancer Society, or by asking about certification when you make your appointment.

Does breast size make a difference?

If your breasts are extremely large, or extremely small, it may take a little bit more time to have a mammogram, but screening is just as accurate.

I have breast implants. Do they affect a mammogram?

It is important to inform the technician that you have implants when you make your appointment for a mammogram. Special techniques are used and some extra films may be required.

If I have breast reconstruction using my own tissue, are mammograms still necessary?

No. If you have had breast reconstruction using your own tissue following a mastectomy, mammograms in your reconstructed breast are not necessary.

Personal Mammogram Experiences

Lottie's experience

I was, like, surprised. No history of any type of cancer even in my family. None. It's just like we die of old age, of natural death, you know. But like I said, I was okay with it and I felt very blessed because it was at the very, very early stages. They couldn't even feel it. It was on the mammogram and it was my first one that I've ever taken.