1. What is mammography?
       2. How often should I have a mammogram?
       3. What do I need to do to prepare for my mammogram?
       4. What should I expect during the exam?
       5. What should I expect after the exam?

What is mammography?

Mammography is the examination of the breast tissue and the structure of the breasts using x-rays. Mammography is considered the most effective tool for early breast tumor detection when no symptoms are evident. Most medical experts agree that successful treatment of breast cancer often is linked to early diagnosis. Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them.

How often should I have a mammogram?

It is recommended from the guidelines of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the American Cancer Society (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) that screening mammography be done every year for women, beginning at age 40. If there is a family history of breast cancer, your physician may suggest having a mammogram sooner than recommended.

What do I need to do to prepare for my mammogram?

• Do not wear deodorant, powder, or lotion/cream under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam.

• If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available at the time of your exam.

• Before the exam, you will be asked to remove all jewelry and clothing above the waist. You will be given a gown that opens in the front.

• If there is any possibility that you may be pregnant, please inform the technologist.

What should I expect during the exam?

A mammogram usually takes approximately 30 minutes. After changing into a gown, the technologist will ask you some questions related to your breast health and family history.
The technologist will apply compression on your breast between two plate-like structures and, as a result, you will feel some pressure on the breast. Some women with sensitive breasts may experience some minor discomfort. This compression is very important to your study as it lowers the radiation exposure, spreads the breast tissue so that it will not overlap and hide information and it also helps to make a clearer image. It only lasts for several seconds and will be released as soon as the technologist acquires the image. Be sure to inform the technologist if pain occurs as compression is increased. If discomfort is significant, less compression will be used. The routine views are a top-to-bottom view and a side view. You will be asked to change positions slightly between views. The process is repeated for the other breast.

What should I expect after the exam?

After your exam is completed, it will be reviewed and read by our radiologists. Any previous studies provided to us will be compared to your exam and the results will be sent directly to your doctor. Having all of your previous exams (x-rays, CT scans, mammograms, MRI’s, etc) will help us provide a more detailed report to the ordering physician and give him or her a more clear picture of your overall health. High Field Imaging will also send you a report summarizing our findings to your home.