Mammography

What is mammography?

Mammography is a specialized X-ray exam dedicated to the breast. Modern systems use 3D digital tomosynthesis — a series of low-dose images that produce thin cross-sections through the breast. This makes it easier to find small cancers and reduces the chance of being called back for additional images.

Screening vs. diagnostic mammograms

Screening mammograms are routine exams for women without symptoms. They look for breast cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages — when there is no lump and no warning signs.

Diagnostic mammograms evaluate a specific concern such as a lump, breast pain, nipple discharge, or an abnormal screening result. They include additional images and are interpreted by the radiologist while you wait.

Most women begin annual screening between age 40 and 50. Talk to your doctor about what schedule is right for you.

How to prepare

• Don't apply deodorant, antiperspirant, lotion, perfume, or powder under your arms or on your breasts the day of the exam — these can show up on the images and look like areas of concern
• Wear a two-piece outfit so you can undress from the waist up easily
• Bring prior mammogram images, CDs, or reports if you've had imaging at another facility
• If you're still having menstrual periods, scheduling the week after your period (when breasts are least tender) may be more comfortable

What to expect during your exam

A specially trained female technologist will position one breast at a time on the imaging plate. Each breast is briefly compressed between two paddles for a few seconds while the images are taken. Compression flattens the tissue, which lowers the radiation dose needed and produces clearer images.

The compression is uncomfortable but should not be painful. Tell your technologist if you have areas of pain — adjustments can usually be made. The whole exam takes 15 to 20 minutes.

Is it safe?

Mammography uses very small doses of X-rays — far less than a single CT scan. The benefit of finding breast cancer early greatly outweighs the very small radiation risk.

If there's any chance you could be pregnant, tell us beforehand so we can postpone the exam or take additional precautions.

After your exam

You can resume your day immediately. Most screening results come back within a week. About 1 in 10 women is called back for additional images — this usually does not mean cancer. It often means we need a closer look at an area that may simply be overlapping breast tissue or a benign finding. If anything needs further evaluation, your physician's office will contact you to plan next steps.