What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.
How is a Mammogram done?
You will stand in front of a special X-ray machine. A technologist will place your breast on a clear plastic plate. Another plate will firmly press your breast from above. The plates will flatten the breast, holding it still while the X-ray is being taken. You will feel some pressure. The steps are repeated to make a side view of the breast. The other breast will be X-rayed in the same way. You will then wait while the technologist checks the four X-rays to make sure the pictures do not need to be re-done. Keep in mind that the technologist cannot tell you the results of your mammogram. Each woman’s mammogram may look a little different because all breasts are a little different.
What does a Mammogram feel like?
Having a mammogram is uncomfortable for most women. Some women find it painful. A mammogram takes only a few moments, though, and the discomfort is over soon. What you feel depends on the skill of the technologist, the size of your breasts, and how much they need to be pressed. Your breasts may be more sensitive if you are about to get or have your period. A doctor with special training, called a radiologist, will read the mammogram. He or she will look at the X-ray for early signs of breast cancer or other problems.
My Experience
On Monday, August 26, 2019, I had a baseline mammogram done. At the age of 41, it was time for me to start my annual mammogram screenings. Although I was armed with the knowledge of the process, I was still nervous and fearful.
The whole process took less than 10 minutes. I was instructed to take off everything above the waist and replace it with a paper gown. Shortly after, I was called into the room where the X-ray machine and technician was. The process was explained to me while the technician cleaned the part of the machine that I would come into contact with. She instructed me in every maneuver and position change.
A total of 12 X-rays (6 for each breast) were taken. While my breast were squeezed flat in between the two compression plates, it did not cause any extreme discomfort. I was more uncomfortable with the technician touching my breast to position them than I was with the exam itself. Overall, I would rate the process 2 out of 10 (on a scale of 1- 10, 10 being the worse) as it relates to pain.
When should women get a mammogram?
· Women ages 40 to 44 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms if they wish to do so.
· Women age 45 to 54 should get mammograms every year.
· Women 55 and older should switch to mammograms every 2 years, or can continue yearly screening.
· Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and is expected to live 10 more years or longer.
All women should be familiar with the known benefits, limitations, and potential harms linked to breast cancer screening.
Women should also know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast changes to a health care provider right away.
Some women, because of their family history, a genetic tendency, or certain other factors, should be screened with MRIs along with mammograms. The number of women who fall into this category is very small.
Talk with a health care provider about your risk for breast cancer and the best screening plan for you.
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