Making Mammograms Less Intimidating: What Really Happens During Your Screening
Wondering what to expect from your upcoming mammogram? Many women feel anxious about this important screening, often due to uncertainty about what the process involves or concerns they've heard from others. The truth is, understanding what really happens during a mammogram can transform anxiety into confidence and help you take this crucial step in protecting your health.
Why Mammograms Matter
Before we dive into the process, it's important to understand why mammograms are so valuable. These screenings can detect breast cancer up to two years before you or your doctor can feel a lump. Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40-54 get mammograms every year, and those 55 and older can switch to every two years or continue yearly screenings.
What to Expect: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Before Your Appointment
Scheduling Considerations:
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If you menstruate, try to schedule your mammogram for the week after your period when breasts are typically less tender
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Don't wear deodorant, powder or lotion on your underarms and chest area, as these can interfere with imaging
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Dress comfortably in a two-piece outfit, generally allowing the imaging to take place without having to remove all your clothing
What to Bring:
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Your insurance card and ID
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Any previous mammogram images if you're going to a new facility
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A list of any current medications
Arrival and Check-in
When you arrive at the imaging center, you'll complete standard paperwork and health questionnaires. The staff will ask about your medical history, family history of breast or ovarian cancer and any current symptoms or concerns. This information helps the radiologist interpret your images more accurately.
The Changing Process
You'll be given a hospital gown that opens in the front and asked to undress from the waist up. Many facilities provide lockers for your belongings and changing rooms. Take your time getting comfortable – there's no rush.
Meeting Your Technologist
A certified imaging technologist will guide you through the entire process. These professionals are specially trained not only in the technical aspects of mammography but also in helping patients feel comfortable and at ease. If you have any questions at this point, or at any point during your appointment, they are there to help and make the appointment as smooth as possible.
The Imaging Process
Here's what actually happens during the mammogram:
Positioning:
Unlike MRI or CT scans where you lie down inside a large machine, mammograms are performed while you're standing upright next to an open imaging unit. There is no enclosed space or tunnel involved. Instead:
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You'll stand in front of the mammography machine
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The technologist will help position your breast on a clear plastic plate
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Your breast will be compressed by another plate from above to spread the tissue evenly
This is often the part women worry about most. Yes, there is pressure, but it serves important purposes:
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It spreads breast tissue so abnormalities aren't hidden
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It holds the breast still to prevent blurring
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It allows for lower radiation doses
The compression typically lasts only 10-15 seconds per image. Most technologists continue communication with you at this time to ensure you stand still and good quality images can be obtained with the least discomfort possible.
Multiple Views:
To get the best diagnostic results, multiple views and positions are needed. This will involve the technologist guiding you through several different stances and angles on each breast. More specifically:
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Standard mammograms take two views of each breast: top-to-bottom and side-to-side
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You'll need to hold your breath briefly for each image
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The entire imaging process usually takes about 10-15 minutes
Addressing Common Fears and Concerns
"It's going to be extremely painful"
Reality: While mammograms can be uncomfortable, most women describe it as pressure rather than pain. The compression lasts only seconds at a time, and the entire exam is over quickly.
"What if they find something?"
Reality: About 10% of women will need additional imaging after a screening mammogram. Of these, roughly 8-10% will need a biopsy, and about 25-40% of those biopsies reveal cancer. Remember, finding something early is actually the best possible outcome if there is an issue.
"The radiation is dangerous"
Reality: The radiation dose from a mammogram is very low – about the same amount you'd receive from natural background radiation over seven weeks.
"I'm too young/old for mammograms"
Reality: Guidelines vary, but many organizations recommend starting annual or biennial mammograms between ages 40-54 and continuing as long as you're in good health. Some women with genetic predisposition begin mammograms as early as their 20s. No matter your age, detecting breast cancer early dramatically increases positive outcomes.
After Your Mammogram
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You can resume normal activities immediately
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Results are typically available within a few days to a week
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If additional imaging is needed, don't panic – it's often just to get a clearer view of normal breast tissue
The Bigger Picture: Your Health Journey
Remember that getting a mammogram is an act of self-care. You're taking a proactive step to protect your health and ensure you're there for all the people and experiences that matter to you. Many women find that once they've had their first mammogram, subsequent screenings feel much more manageable because they know what to expect.
Making It Routine
The key to making mammograms less intimidating is making them routine. When you schedule your next appointment before leaving your current one or mark it on your calendar as an annual event, it becomes just another part of taking care of yourself.
You're Not Alone
Millions of women get mammograms every year. The healthcare professionals performing your screening have helped thousands of women through this process. They understand your concerns and are there to support you every step of the way.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Don't let anxiety about the unknown keep you from this important health screening. Contact your primary care provider today to schedule your mammogram. CaroMont Health offers scheduling at multiple locations in the area, including a new women’s imaging center in Belmont, located in the Medical Office Pavilion on the campus of CaroMont Regional Medical Center-Belmont. With CaroMont Health, you can expect state-of-the-art mammography services in a comfortable, welcoming environment designed with your experience in mind. Learn more here.