Area: Radiology
Mammogram is an imaging procedure that is commonly used to detect and diagnose early signs of breast cancer in women.
Guidelines for the procedure:
- DO NOT use the following on your breast and underarms on the day of mammography it is important to avoid them as they will distort the images and will give false results:
- Deodorants
- Baby powers
- Perfume
- Ointments
- Creams
- Be sure to tell your radiologist before the exam if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. In general, you won’t be able to receive a screening mammogram at this time, but if necessary, your doctor can order other screening methods, such as an ultrasound.
- Each breasts fits onto a flat X-ray plate. A compressor will then push the breast down to flatten the tissue. This provides a clearer picture of the breast. You might have to hold your breath for each picture. You may feel a small amount of pressure or discomfort, but it’s usually brief.
- As with any type of X-ray, you’re receiving exposure to a very small amount of radiation during a mammogram. However, the risk from this exposure is extremely low.