Mammogram: What To Expect

Before a mammogram your doctor and the X-ray technician will explain the procedure. During the mammogram the technician will use special equipment to compress your breast tissue to get as clear a picture as possible. This may cause some temporary pain, but it is usually not severe.

The technician will forward the results to your doctor, who will explain them to you. If the mammogram reveals anything that is irregular, your doctor will recommend the next steps.

These steps may involve another mammogram, an ultrasound, or a biopsy to remove a small piece of tissue for examination. If the biopsy confirms a cancerous growth your doctor will explain all the available options for treatment.

Most mammograms ordered for screening purposes come back with normal results.

TBS Editor's Note: I have just had my first mammogram. I am 46. The technician handled my breasts like slabs of raw meat. The squeezing of the tissue between the plates was very intense despite the fact that I do not have dense breast tissue. I've always been coached to breathe through pain. In this case, I was told to hold my breath. Very counter intuitive. Each breast gets X-rayed twice. I found the process completely devoid of any human kindness or compassion. And, no I was not expecting tea and scones. Just a bit of gentleness for a first timer. My results were immediate and normal.

Safeguard Your Health

Breast cancer is a risk for all women and the risk increases with age. If you are under the age of 50 ask your doctor to show you how to perform breast self-examinations and do them regularly. Make sure your doctor includes a breast examination during your regular physical examinations. Discuss your family history and the likelihood of getting breast cancer. Know about breast cancer risk factors.

If you are over the age of 50, in addition to performing breast self-examination, you should also talk to your doctor about having regular screening mammograms to detect possible cancers in their earliest stages.

Source: Health Canada it's Your Health

>> Mammogram Details

>> Mammogram: What to Expect

>> Mammography and Radiation Risks and Benefits

>> Breast Implants and Mammograms