If you’re a bit nervous about your first mammogram, you’re not alone. Many people worry about the pain, feel anxious about the results or simply don’t know what to expect the first time. And when life is already full with work, family and everything else in between, it’s easy to push something like a mammogram to the bottom of your to-do list.
But this quick, routine screening can catch breast cancer early, often before you feel a lump or notice any changes. When found early, breast cancer is much easier to treat. In fact, mammograms have helped lower breast cancer deaths by 40% since 1990.
“The majority of breast cancers we diagnose are in people with no known risk factors,” said Danielle Summers, MD, a breast imaging specialist and diagnostic radiologist with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center. “Breast cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages. That’s why regular screening is important.”
If you’re age 40 or older (younger if you’re high risk), it’s time to start regular screenings. Taking care of yourself helps you continue to show up for everyone who depends on and cares about you.
Dr. Summers helped walk us through what to expect during your first mammogram and why you shouldn’t wait.
Before your mammogram appointment
A little planning can make your first mammogram easier and more comfortable.
- Skip deodorant and lotions: On the day of your appointment, don’t put on deodorant, lotion or perfume. These can appear in your images and make them harder to read. But feel free to bring these items with you for after your exam. If you forget, it’s okay. Ask the care team for wipes.
- Wear a two-piece outfit: You’ll only need to remove your top for the exam.
- Time it right: If you still get your period, try to schedule your mammogram the week after it ends, when your breasts are likely to be less tender.
- Consider a pain reliever: If you’re worried about discomfort, it’s okay to take ibuprofen or acetaminophen an hour before your appointment.
- Bring your records: If you’ve had previous mammograms at another facility, bring that information with you or have the other facility send them over so your radiologist can compare.
“The more we know going in, the better your breast imaging will be,” Dr. Summers said. “Prior images are very helpful for comparison and can reduce the chance of being called back unnecessarily.”
What happens during a mammogram?
Upon arrival, you’ll check in and be taken to a private area to change. You’ll remove your top and bra and wear a gown that opens (but ties) in the front.
During the mammogram:
- One breast is gently placed on a flat surface at a time.
- A second plate gently compresses the breasts for a few seconds.
- You’ll be asked to take a breath and hold as the machine takes images from different angles.
- The process is repeated for the other breast.
The entire appointment should take less than 30 minutes from check-in to check-out.
“People are often surprised by how quick the examination is,” Dr. Summers said. “The entire exam is normally completed within 10 minutes and only requires each breast to be in compression for about 10 to 15 seconds per picture. We get two views of each breast, so it’s only about a minute of total compression.”
Will a mammogram hurt?
Dr. Summers noted that you may feel pressure as your breast is compressed. Some people describe it as mildly uncomfortable but brief and manageable.
“Most people find that the exam is less painful and uncomfortable than they expected,” Dr. Summers said. “Mammogram technologists are great about working with patients to make sure the exam is as comfortable as possible while getting the images we need to catch breast cancers early.”
What happens after the screening?
You’ll get dressed and go about your day. A radiologist will review your images and you’ll receive your results within a few days.
- Normal results? Great! Just return for your next screening in a year.
- Need more scans? Before you worry too much, know that radiologists sometimes ask for a closer look. This doesn’t mean something is wrong. It’s just to be thorough.
“Overall, one in 10 women will be called back from her screening mammogram, which is pretty common, but only 5% to 10% of women who get called back ultimately get diagnosed with breast cancer,” Dr. Summers said. “That means that 90% to 95% of the women who get called back will ultimately be told that everything is okay.”
What is a 3D mammogram?
You may be offered a 3D mammogram, also called tomosynthesis. This newer technology creates a detailed picture of your breast by taking multiple images from different angles.
While 2D mammograms capture images from a single angle, 3D mammograms provide radiologists with a clearer, layered view, much like flipping through the pages of a book.
“3D mammograms improve our ability to detect early cancers, especially in women with dense breast tissue,” Dr. Summers said. “They also lower the chance of false positives. Due to these benefits, every woman who needs a screening should get a 3D mammogram if it’s available to them.”
Ask your provider or imaging center if 3D mammography is right for you. Please note that some insurance plans may charge a small fee for the 3D portion.
Frequently asked questions about mammograms
Is the radiation harmful?
No. Mammograms use a very low dose of radiation. It’s about the same radiation as you are exposed to in seven weeks of being around your natural surroundings.
What if I have dense breasts or breast implants?
You can still get screened. Check out our blog on mammograms for people with breast implants.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No. If you’re 40 or older, you can schedule a mammogram without a referral from your provider.
What if I can’t afford it?
Most insurance plans cover mammograms at no cost. If you’re uninsured or underinsured, ask your health care provider about free or low-cost programs.
You can also check the National Breast Cancer Foundation for a list of partner facilities that offer free mammograms and diagnostic services to those in need.
Ready to schedule your mammogram?
At Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center and Banner Imaging, we understand that your first mammogram can bring up a range of emotions. Whether it’s your first screening mammogram or part of routine follow-up, we’re here to guide you with expert care.
To schedule a mammogram, find one of our breast centers or imaging locations near you. You can also contact the National Cancer Institute (1-800-4-CANCER) to find a certified mammography provider.
