What to Expect When Getting a Mammogram
What to Expect When Getting a Mammogram
Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and at ease with the breast diagnostic procedure. The waiting rooms are designed to have a warm and inviting feeling. Our friendly and professional service representatives will greet and assist with our streamlined admitting process.
Once admitted, you will be directed to the dressing room, given a gown and asked to remove your clothing from the waist up. If you are wearing deodorant, powder or lotion near the breast area, you will be asked to wash before the mammograms are taken. Deodorant is available for use after the mammogram is completed.
The certified mammography technologist will review your breast history before she takes your mammograms. Then she will explain the procedure to you.
Please note
If you are pregnant of think you may be pregnant, please tell the technologist.
During the procedure
The technologist will assist with positioning for the best possible mammogram image. You will feel slight pressure on your breast while the mammogram is taken. In order to get the best image, it is necessary to compress the breast with the plastic plates. This discomfort will only last a few seconds. The technologist will then leave the room to process the mammogram films.
After the procedure
When the films are being developed, you may relax and take advantage of educational videotapes and pamphlets. Breast models are also available to help you become familiar with what is normal and abnormal when performing breast self-examination.
Sometimes, additional mammogram films will be taken. This is a common practice and should not cause concern. The additional films are needed to ensure the exam is thorough and complete.
Getting the results of your mammogram
You will receive a letter from the Breast Center indicating the exam results and recommended date for your next mammogram. Your physician will receive a mammogram report and may contact you directly. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the Breast Center.
