National Mammogram Day: Everything You Need To Know Before Your First Mammogram

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Did you know the third Friday of October is National Mammogram Day? The thought of getting a mammogram can be scary but an important thing to remember is early detection is key. Breast cancer that’s found early, when it’s small and has not spread, is easier to treat successfully. Getting regular screening tests is the most reliable way to find breast cancer early. 

By learning how to prepare for and what to expect from this important cancer screening exam, you can eliminate some of the guesswork and make your experience less nerve-wracking.

Here’s what you should know. Mammograms save lives.

Let’s begin from what a mammogram is, shall we?

WHAT IS A MAMMOGRAM?

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray test of the breast (mammary glands) used to screen for breast problems, such as a lump. Many small tumors can be seen on a mammogram before they can even be felt by a woman or her health professional.

Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer or reduce a woman's risk of developing cancer. However, regular breast cancer screening can reduce a woman's risk of dying from breast cancer by detecting it in its early stages.

There are two types:

  1. A screening mammogram 

According to the American Cancer Society, a screening mammogram is used when the patient does not have any concerning symptoms such as a lump in the breast, nipple discharge or breast skin changes. This exam usually consists of two standard images of each breast and should be part of a routine screening for women, starting at age 40.

2. A diagnostic mammogram

A diagnostic mammogram is performed to provide radiologists with a more in-depth picture of problems, changes or concerning symptoms. A diagnostic mammogram is often done if a woman has breast symptoms or if a change is seen on a screening mammogram. It can also be used for a patient that was previously treated for breast cancer. These X-rays consists of two standard images of each breast plus more focused images of the areas of concern. The additional pictures allow for more accurate and effective characterizations of the symptom.


PREPARATION BEFORE YOUR MAMMOGRAM

To be honest there isn’t much you need to do other than schedule your appointment and get there on time! But here are a few tips to ensure you are prepared and comfortable.

  • Try to go to the same facility for every appointment for easy comparison of results.

  • If you’re going to a facility for the first time, bring a list of the places and dates of mammograms, biopsies, or other breast treatments you’ve had before.

  • Schedule your mammogram when your breasts are not tender or swollen to help reduce discomfort and get the best pictures. Try to avoid the week just before your period.

  • On the day of the exam, don’t wear deodorant, antiperspirant, perfume, powder or any ointments on your breasts. The residue left on your skin by these substances may interfere with the X-rays.

    PRO TIP: If you’re not going home afterward, you might want to take your deodorant with you to put on after your exam. 

  • Wear a two-piece outfit , so that you’ll only need to remove your top and bra for the mammogram. 

  • Discuss any recent changes or problems in your breasts with your health care provider before getting the mammogram.


DURING THE MAMMOGRAM

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Here is a short overview of what a typical mammogram will look like. A mammogram is done by a radiology/mammogram technologist. You will need to:

  • remove any jewelry that might interfere with the X-ray picture

  • remove your clothes above the waist; you will be given a cloth or paper gown for the test.

Remember to show any areas of concern to the technologist so they can be noted. You usually stand during a breast cancer screening but in some cases, depending on the X-ray equipment you may sit or lie down.

One at a time, your breasts will be positioned on a flat plate while another plate will compress your breast tissue. Having your breasts flattened and squeezed is usually uncomfortable but firm compression is necessary for the best possible images.

You may be asked to lift your arm or use your hand to hold your other breast out of the way.

You will need to hold your breath for a few seconds while the X-ray picture is being taken. Usually at least two pictures are taken of each breast, one from the top and one from the side. And then you are done!

 You may be in the mammogram clinic for up to an hour but the mammogram itself only takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER?

A radiologist will interpret your exam and a report will be sent to your physician's office to discuss results.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately one to two mammograms out of every 1,000 lead to a diagnosis of cancer. Approximately 10% of women will require more mammography. Most unusual findings aren’t cancer.

Now go ahead and schedule an appointment, you surely won’t regret it. Happy National Mammogram Day!

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