How to Prepare for a Mammogram

Mammograms save lives. Early detection of breast cancer through proper screening will give a patient a remarkable 99% five-year survival rate. Let’s review everything you need to know about preparing for your mammogram. This complete guide will help ease your concerns about this important women’s health screening, whether you’re getting your first mammogram or just need a refresher.

What to Know Before Scheduling a Mammogram

Familiarizing yourself with mammogram types and timing guidelines allows you to make smart decisions about this vital screening tool. You should know these key facts about mammogram screening before booking your appointment.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a specialized X-ray of the breasts used to detect early signs of breast cancer and other breast abnormalities. It is a critical screening tool for women, especially those over 40, as it can help identify potential issues before any symptoms are noticeable. Mammograms can detect lumps, calcifications, and other changes in breast tissue, which may indicate the presence of cancer or other women’s health conditions.

Types of Mammograms: Screening vs. Diagnostic

Mammograms use low-dose X-ray technology to capture detailed images of the breast tissue. Both screening and diagnostic mammograms use the same technology, but are used for different purposes. Here’s a closer look at each type:

• Screening Mammogram: A screening mammogram is a routine, preventative exam used to detect early signs of breast cancer in women without symptoms. These exams aim to identify changes in the breast before any noticeable signs or symptoms appear. 
• Diagnostic Mammogram: A diagnostic mammogram is used when a screening mammogram shows abnormalities or when a woman experiences symptoms like lumps, pain, or nipple discharge. This type of mammogram provides more detailed images, allowing for closer inspection of concerning areas. 

When Should You Get a Mammogram?

Medical organizations now recommend that women with average risk begin mammogram screening at age 40, a shift that comes in response to concerning trends. From 2015 to 2019, there was a 2% yearly rise in invasive breast cancer among women ages 40-49. Screening earlier can help catch cancer in its earliest stages, improving treatment outcomes.

For women with higher risk factors, earlier screening may be necessary. These risk factors include:

• BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
• Breast cancer in first-degree relatives
• Radiation to the chest before age 30
• Certain genetic syndromes
• Hormonal conditions, such as PCOS

Here’s a breakdown of mammogram guidelines based on age:

• Ages 40-44: Start annual mammogram screenings.
• Ages 45-54: At the beginning of menopause, continue with yearly screenings. 
• Ages 55+: Decide between biennial or annual screenings, depending on risk factors and preferences.
• Ages 75+: Continue screenings based on health status and the primary care doctor’s recommendation.

How to Prepare for Your Mammogram: Night Before and Morning Of

Follow these simple tips for the day before and morning of your mammogram to make the process as smooth as possible.

1. Avoid Deodorants, Lotions, and Powders

The most important step in preparing for your mammogram is to avoid all underarm and chest products, including deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, creams, powders, and perfumes. These can contain ingredients like aluminum and other metallic substances that can appear as white spots on the images, potentially leading to false readings and unnecessary follow-up tests.

Note: Most imaging centers have cleansing wipes to remove any residue or product before your screening.

2. Choose the Right Clothing

Wear a two-piece outfit—pants or a skirt with a separate top. This makes it easy to remove only your top while staying covered from the waist down. Comfortable flat shoes are ideal, as you’ll be standing during the procedure. It’s also best to leave your jewelry, such as necklaces, at home, as they can interfere with imaging.

3. Reduce Caffeine Intake

Avoiding caffeine from coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks the day before can help minimize breast tenderness, making the procedure more comfortable. Additionally, try to schedule your mammogram one to two weeks after your period, when your breasts are typically less tender.

Common Questions Before a Mammogram

• Can I use soap before a mammogram? – Yes, you can take a shower or bath as usual before your mammogram. Regular soap or body wash works fine. It’s a good idea to clean your underarms and chest to remove any leftover products. 
• Can I shave my armpits before a mammogram? – Yes, you can shave your armpits before your mammogram. Some imaging centers even recommend it. Just remember the key rule: no deodorant or antiperspirant after shaving. 

What to Expect During the Procedure

A mammogram appointment usually takes 20-30 minutes to complete. You might feel anxious about this screening, but understanding what happens during the procedure will help reduce your concerns.

How Mammograms Are Performed

After changing into a gown, you’ll meet with the mammography technologist, who will guide you to the X-ray machine. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect during the procedure:

1. Positioning Your Breast: The mammography technologist will guide you to the X-ray machine and help position one breast on a flat plastic platform. They will adjust the height to match your level for proper alignment.
2. Compression: A clear plastic compression plate will be slowly lowered to press down on your breast. This gentle compression spreads the tissue to create clearer images. While it can be uncomfortable, it’s necessary for accurate imaging.
3. Taking the X-ray: You’ll be asked to stay still and hold your breath briefly while the X-ray is taken. Each exposure lasts only a few seconds. The technologist will repeat this from different angles, typically taking two views of each breast.
4. Review and Additional Views: After the initial images are captured, the technologist will review them to ensure they are clear. Additional X-rays can be taken if needed to provide more detailed views.
5. Completion: Once the images are finalized, the procedure is complete. The entire process usually takes about 20-30 minutes.

Do mammograms hurt?

Women typically experience mild to moderate discomfort rather than severe pain. The compression feels like pressure and lasts only 10-15 seconds for each image. Your experience depends on several factors: your breast size, where you are in your menstrual cycle, your technician’s expertise, and how nervous you feel. Hormonal changes, such as those that happen during early signs of menopause, can also influence breast tenderness. Tell your technologist if you feel too much pain—they can often adjust the position to make you more comfortable. You can minimize tenderness by taking over-the-counter pain medication beforehand and scheduling your mammogram the week after your period ends.

Schedule Your Women’s Doctor Appointment at AllCare

Many women feel anxious about getting mammograms. Learning about the process from scheduling to results helps make it less intimidating. Note that getting called back for more imaging happens often and rarely means cancer. Regular mammograms that follow the recommended guidelines for your age and risk factors give you the best chance to catch issues early. Schedule an appointment with an AllCare primary care physician who can help create your personal mammogram schedule based on your unique risk factors. Contact us today or visit one of our walk-in clinics!