Many mammogram facilities will allow a woman over the age of 40 to make an appointment without a referral or prescription from their doctor. [4] X Research source Talk with the doctor about any breast symptoms or signs, like breast tenderness, nipple discharge, or new lumps found on self-examination; inform her of any hormone use. Tell the doctor about your medical history, specifically any personal and family history of breast cancer. [5] X Research source Then, the doctor will perform a breast exam and look for any abnormalities. Follow the doctor’s advice about what signs, symptoms, and medical history are best to share with the radiology technologist who will take the X-rays on the day of the mammogram. Have the doctor address any questions or concerns you may have about your upcoming study.
Do an internet search to find a facility near you. There is a Mammography Facility Database on the FDA website. [7] X Research source You can call a local medical clinic or your health department for suggestions.
The technologist most likely will take additional X-rays to maximize visualization of all breast tissue. He may try to manipulate the implant to move it away from the breast tissue. [9] X Trustworthy Source US Office on Women’s Health U. S. government agency providing resources for women’s health Go to source Capsular contractures or scar tissue around breast implants can make breast compression by the machine too painful or impossible. There is a risk of rupture. Let the technologist know if you are having too much pain. [10] X Research source
The X-ray images of your breast will be analyzed by a certified radiologist. This type of doctor is trained to evaluate X-rays like mammograms and to suggest a diagnosis based upon what he sees on the films. She compares your current films to your old films, looking for any new abnormalities or if a previous abnormality has changed in size or appearance. This comparison is an essential part of determining if anything seen on your mammogram is suggestive of breast cancer. [13] X Research source Give your old facility enough time to make copies of the X-ray films. Mammograms can be X-ray films or digital images sent directly to a computer workstation. [14] X Research source It is possible for digital images to be sent electronically, but you will need to ask. If your previous mammograms were performed at the same facility, just let the radiology technologist know on the day of the appointment. She will inform the radiologist.
Fear of pain or anxiety about the procedure should not be a reason to not have a mammogram performed. If your anxiety is great, your doctor may administer an anti-anxiety medication prior to the exam. You can take a medication like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), or aspirin to try to ease any discomfort. Do not take any medications without first consulting your doctor. You can take a pain reliever after the study as well. If you take medication before the study, make sure the suggested time has elapsed before repeating the next dosing. Compression of the breast tissue is not harmful. There are advantages to having the tissue spread out evenly. It allows better visualization of any abnormalities. The superior tissue penetration allows for less radiation use. Blurring of the images is decreased because the tissue is being held in place. [16] X Research source
Grooming products can have metallic particles or contain calcium, resulting in shadows on the X-ray. This could be mistaken for or hide abnormal breast tissue. Avoid undergoing additional testing or possibly losing the opportunity to have a breast cancer detected early.
Ask at what time and where in the facility you are expected. Plan your travel time so that you arrive early.
The technologist can focus on any suspicious areas and communicate that to the radiologist if you tell him about specific breast signs and symptoms. The technologist also will pass on any information about your personal or family history of breast cancer.
You will stand in front of the X- ray machine. The technologist will place the breast on a platform which is raised or lowered to match your height. Proper positioning of your arms, torso, and head is key to obtaining high-quality X-ray images. Finally, a clear plastic plate will gradually compress the breast. Once the breast is properly compressed, you will need to stand still and hold your breath. This process will be repeated on the other breast. [21] X Research source
