Mammography

Alternative names:

mammogram

How the test is performed:

You will be asked to undress from the waist up and will be given a gown to wear. Depending on the type of equipment used, you will sit or stand. One breast at a time is rested on a flat surface that contains the X-ray plate, and a device called a compressor will be pressed firmly against the breast to help flatten out the breast tissue. The X-ray pictures are taken from several angles. You may be asked to hold your breath while the picture is taken.

How to prepare for the test:

Deodorant, perfume, powders and ointments under the arms or on the breasts may cause the pictures to be obscured and should not be worn the day of the X-ray. Remove all jewelry from the neck. Notify your health care provider (and/or the radiologist) if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

How the test will feel:

When the breast is compressed, there may be some discomfort.

Why the test is performed:

The test is performed if a woman has symptoms of a breast disease such as a lump, nipple discharge, breast pain, dimpling of the skin on the breast, or a new retraction of the nipple.

Women without symptoms should have screening mammograms for early cancer detection. The American Cancer Society recommends a screening mammogram around age 40, yearly or every 2 years between the ages of 40 to 49, and every year after 50.