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Iowa Radiology supports the recommendations of the American College of Radiology, the Society of Breast Imaging, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that women begin having annual mammograms at age 40. According to Breastcancer.org, finding breast cancer early reduces the risk of dying from the disease by 25-30% or more.[1]
Additionally, a study published in Cancer found that most cancer deaths occur in women who are not undergoing regular screening, and the median age for diagnosis of fatal breast cancer is 49. Finding cancers early with routine mammograms can prolong life and also allow women to choose more conservative treatment, maintaining a higher quality of life.
Even if you understand the benefits of mammography, it’s natural to be wary of a procedure that you’re not familiar with. Knowing what to expect and how you can prepare can help you be more comfortable before, during, and following your mammogram.
Preparing for a Mammogram
A little advance preparation can make your mammogram both more comfortable and more accurate.
Decide what type of mammogram to have.
Iowa Radiology offers both digital mammography and breast tomosynthesis, more commonly known as 3-D mammography. Digital mammography represents an advance over traditional analog mammography, providing clearer images that can be manipulated on a computer for more versatile viewing. In 3-D mammography, several images are taken and digitally combined to create a 3-dimensional representation of the breast, allowing radiologists to view fine details that, in a flat image, would be hidden behind layers of breast tissue. Check your insurance plan to determine your coverage level for each procedure, and discuss your mammography options with your doctor.
Schedule your appointment.
Because your breasts will be manipulated and compressed during your mammogram, you will be most comfortable if you avoid scheduling when your breasts tend to be more tender, such as the week prior to your menstrual cycle. During the week following your period, your breasts are likely to be least tender. Caffeine can also cause breast tenderness, so if you enjoy daily caffeine, cutting back a few days prior to your exam may be helpful.
Gather your medical history.
The radiologist will want to know when and where you last had a mammogram (if you’ve had one before) and any medical history relevant to your breast health, including whether you currently have or have ever had breast implants.
The Day of Your Mammogram
If you’ve had mammograms before and know that they cause you significant discomfort, you may wish to take over-the-counter pain medication prior to your procedure. Most women do not require this, however, so if it’s your first time, you may just want to bring along some ibuprofen or acetaminophen to take afterward in case you feel you need it.
When you come in for your mammogram, avoid wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, powder, lotion, or perfume under your arms or around your breasts, as these kinds of products can create shadows in the images. We provide aerosol deodorant for use after your exam. Dressing in a two-piece outfit will allow you to keep your lower half covered in the hospital gown that we provide for the procedure.
What to Expect During Your Mammogram
The technologist will position your breast in the machine, compressing it between two plates. She will then ask you to hold your breath for a moment while images are captured. If you're receiving a digital mammogram, then images will be taken of each breast, compressed both horizontally and vertically. In the case of breast tomosynthesis, image capture takes just a few seconds longer as the machine moves in an arc over the breast. The entire exam takes approximately 15 minutes.
The technologist will then look at the images to make sure they are the best possible quality; more images will be taken as necessary to ensure the radiologist gets the information necessary to give accurate results.
Our radiologist will report the results of your exam to your referring doctor within one business day, and we will mail you written results, which you should receive within one week. If the radiologist determines that follow-up is necessary, then we will contact you to schedule an additional appointment.
Is a Mammogram Callback Bad News?
The vast majority of the time, a mammogram callback does not mean there is a problem. The radiologist will recommend follow up if any changes are noted on your mammogram or if additional images are needed for more information. Of the approximately 10% of mammograms that result in a callback, 8-10% will receive biopsy recommendations; of that fraction who do receive biopsies, 80% come back negative for cancer.[2]
Do you still have questions? Click below to access our free eBook, full of information about cancer risk, 3-D mammography, screening recommendations, and the benefits vs. risks of mammography. If you’re ready to schedule your screening mammogram now, you can fill out our online scheduling request and let us know your preferred date and clinic (downtown, Clive, or Ankeny). For your convenience, our Clive and Ankeny clinics offer Saturday mammography appointments.
[1] "Mammography: Benefits, Risks, What You Need to Know." Breastcancer.org. n.p., n.d. Web. 2 June 2016.
[2] Uscher. "Suspicious Mammogram Result: Now What?" WebMD. WebMD, LLC, n.d. Web. 2 June 2016.
The information contained in the Iowa Radiology website is presented as public service information only. It is not intended to be nor is it a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider if you think you may have a medical problem before starting any new treatment, or if you have any questions regarding your medical condition.
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