|
BREAST HEALTH
> MAMMOGRAM
> GENERAL
INFORMATION
A mammogram is
a low-dose X-ray of the breast. There are two types
of mammograms: screening and diagnostic.
 Most women come to our center for
a screening mammogram. This is used to screen for abnormal changes in the
tissue of the breast, including cancer, in a patient who has no symptoms of
breast cancer.
A diagnostic mammogram is
performed when an area of the breast needs to be looked at in more detail.
Below is general information that
applies to both types of mammograms. If you have been told you need a screening
mammogram, click
here
for more information specific to this procedure.
If you have been told you
need a diagnostic mammogram, click
here for more
information specific to this procedure.
How is a mammogram performed?
Our radiologic technologist will position you at one of our
state-of-the-art Siemens mammography machines, where your breast will be placed
between two plates and gently compressed, so that as much as possible of your
breast and surrounding tissue can be visualized on the X-ray. Usually two views
are taken of each breast.
Will my mammogram be painful?
Most women say it is not painful, just uncomfortable – and
only for the few seconds that their breasts are compressed. With over
80 years of combined experience in mammography, our
six radiology technologists perform your
mammogram with two goals in mind: obtaining the best possible picture of your
breasts so no area is missed on the X-ray and ensuring your comfort. One tip for
avoiding discomfort: Try to schedule your mammogram at a time other than during
your period, because your breasts may be more sensitive at that time.
If I find it painful, is there anything I can do to make
my mammogram more comfortable?
 Yes! If you have found mammograms painful in the past, you
may want to try our new Woman’s Touch
MammoPad, (website), a
special cushion designed by a female breast surgeon to provide a soft, warm
protective surface between your breast and the mammography machine. Most
insurance companies will not cover this, but many women find the extra comfort
provided by the pad well worth the $5 out-of-pocket cost. The pad does not
affect the sensitivity or quality of the mammogram. If you would like to try
the Woman’s Touch MammoPad on
your next visit, just tell the radiologic technologist who performs your
mammogram.
Do I need to do anything special before my appointment?
If you have had a mammogram previously and are a new
patient, please let us know where your previous studies were done when you
schedule your appointment so we can have them on hand to compare with your new
mammogram.
Also be sure to gather
information about your family history of cancer, your gynecological history, any
hormones you have taken and any previous breast surgery or treatments, so you
can provide that information on your patient information form.
Can I download patient
registration forms here on the website?
Yes! You can download and print
out our patient registration forms here,
then complete them in the comfort of your home prior
to coming to our office. Just remember to bring the completed forms with you.
If you prefer not to do that, you can fill out the forms when you arrive
for your appointment at our office.
Should I do anything special on the day of my mammogram?
We ask that you avoid use of powders and deodorants that
morning, if possible, because they sometimes leave residue that can be mistaken
on a mammogram for calcifications (which may require a closer look on a second
mammogram).
In consideration of others who may be bothered by
fragrances, we also ask that you not wear perfumed lotions and fragrances when
you come for your mammogram.
|
Mammogram
