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Mammography

Mammography tour

For more on health care services for women, click here.

What to expect when you have a mammogram

my name is Laura and I am a registered mammography technologist. I will show you how a mammogram is done and what you would go through if you were having this test today.

After you have been registered you will be shown to a private changing area. There you will be asked to change into this robe or gown, removing your clothing from the waist up. I will then take you to a private area and ask you some questions to obtain a brief health history. 

After that, I might do a breast exam if needed. The information I gather from your history and breast exam will help the radiologist review your mammogram. Since monthly breast self-exams are also an important part of breast care, I will review this process with you if you'd like.

Before I do your mammogram I want to explain a little about the machine and how the test is done. Notice that a warming pad has been placed on the machine to make it more comfortable for you. 

All mammography machines are designed to do the same thing. Using X-ray technology, they take a picture inside your breast. All the equipment within Aurora meets the standards set by the federal government. Our mammography sites are also inspected once a year to make sure we comply with these standards.

Now let's move closer to the machine. I want to explain a bit more about the compression part of the exam By compression I mean the pressure put on your breast to spread the breast tissue evenly for the X-ray. With the right amount of compression, the best pictures are obtained with the least amount of radiation to you. 

I have placed a breast model on the platform of the machine to show you where the breast is placed and how compression is done. Be assured that the compression paddles will release as soon as the picture is taken.

This picture shows two images of the breast model. Both were taken using the same amount of X-ray. Look at the difference in detail. The image on the right is more defined and of better quality; the proper amount of compression was used. The image on the left is poorer in quality; only light compression was used. 

Many women tell us they are afraid the test will be painful. To help ensure your comfort, please be sure to tell me how you are doing as the compression is applied. Many women who are not menopausal find it more comfortable to schedule their mammograms after their periods.

Now I am ready to start your test. The first picture is a view of your breast from top to bottom. We usually take at least two pictures of each breast. After I have you slip one arm out of your gown I will place your breast on the machine. To be sure we see the breast tissue inside without skin folds underneath, I may need to move and pull firmly on your breast. It is important for you to stay as relaxed as possible. This will help decrease any discomfort you may feel.  

I will now bring in the compression paddle and begin the first view. Having your breast compressed is an unusual sensation, but it should not be painful. Remember to tell me what you are feeling so I can make adjustments if needed. My goal is to obtain the highest quality images with the least amount of discomfort to you.

Next I will take a picture that shows a side view of your breast. I will move your arm up on the edge of the machine. This allows part of the muscle behind your breast to come into view. It is important to see a certain amount of muscle to ensure a good mammogram. As with the first image, your breast will need to be moved and pulled firmly. You can now slip your arm back into the gown and we will repeat the same steps with the other breast.

After the images are taken, your films will be read by a radiologist. At some facilities, this is done while you wait. At others, the films are viewed later that day or the next morning. In either case, the radiologist will review your films and make a report. You may be asked to return for more pictures to get better views of a certain area of your breast. This is not uncommon and does not necessarily mean that something is wrong. Most of the time the radiologist simply wants more detailed images to assure the best care for you.

When the test is over you may get dressed and return to your normal activities. At times, women have temporary discomfort from the compression. If this is bothersome, you may take an over-the-counter pain reliever, the same you would use for other minor aches and pains. You may also notice some temporary skin discoloration in one or both breasts from the compression, which is normal.

Your mammogram is now complete. Results will be sent to your doctor and within several weeks you will receive a letter with the radiologist's recommendations. We hope to see you on a regular basis in the future. Please follow your health care provider's recommendations for follow-up mammograms.

• Aurora mammography sites