What To Expect of a Mammogram

A mammogram can be performed in a variety of settings, including hospital clinics, mobile vans or your doctor's office. It involves standing or sitting in front of a specialized x-ray machine. A technician will position your breast on a platform. A clear plastic plate will press the breast flat, enabling the maximum amount of breast tissue to be examined with the least radiation possible.

The compression of the plates may cause some minor discomfort, but no significant pain. If you feel pain, you should inform the technician immediately. If you are menstruating, you may want to schedule your mammogram appointment a week after your period ends when your breasts are not swollen or tender. And if you have breast implants, you should tell your doctor so extra care can be taken to prevent rupturing the implant.

During the mammogram procedure, you will need to remove your clothes from the waist up. For this reason, you may want to wear loose clothing and a shirt that you can take off easily. You will also want to refrain from wearing any deodorant, lotions or powders. These substances can alter the x-ray quality.

Many mammogram facilities now use skin markers to help identify areas of concern or normal breast variations such as surgical scars and raised moles. These adhesive markers are placed on the breast skin and develop on the x-ray to pin point specific spots. This alerts the radiologist and enables a fast accurate reading of the mammogram film.