Mammography is a specific breast imaging technique that utilizes low-energy X-rays for the diagnosis and screening of breast cancer and other breast abnormalities, such as benign tumors and cysts. It is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms such as breast lumps, pain, or nipple discharge, as well as for routine screening in women without breast complaints. While commonly associated with women, mammography is also used in men when symptoms or risk factors for breast cancer are present.
Women with dense breast tissue, or those who are premenopausal or perimenopausal, may benefit from mammography. In cases of dense breast tissue, supplementary imaging such as ultrasound or MRI may be recommended for more accurate detection.
Preparation for a Mammography
- Timing: It is advisable to schedule a mammography during 1st – 2nd week of your menstrual cycle, as breasts are usually less tender and swollen at this time. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive, inform your doctor prior to scheduling the mammogram, as alternative imaging methods may be considered.
- Personal Care: Avoid applying deodorant, perfume, powder, or lotion on your chest or underarm areas before the mammogram, as these products may interfere with the imaging results.
- Accessories: Avoid wearing jewellery or bringing valuables to your appointment, as you may need to remove them for the procedure.
During a mammography
The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes, but the patient can expect to spend a minimum of one hour at the appointment.
Here’s what one can expect during the procedure:
- Unclothe- The patient is asked to undress from above the waist and change into a front-tying smock or gown.
- Position- The patient stands in front of an X-ray machine and places their breast on an adjustable platform. The platform can be raised or lowered as per the patient’s height.
- Compression- The technician utilizes a compressor to compress breasts against the flat, clear plastic X-ray platform. This helps spread out the breast tissue, flatten breasts, and minimize the blurring of images from movement. The compression causes some level of discomfort, but it does not cause any harm.
- X-ray- The X-ray machine produces a small burst of X-rays. These X-rays pass through the breast to reach a detector which may be a solid-state detector or a photographic film plate. Whenever the breast picture is clicked, the patient should hold her breath.
- Repeat- After taking a picture of one breast, the same procedure is done for the other breast. Side pictures of both breasts may also be taken.
- Review- The technician checks for the quality of the images obtained. If needed, additional images are taken.
After a mammography
The patient needs to wait while the technician reviews the collected digital mammography images on a computer screen. After the healthcare provider receives a mammogram report, the patient will be notified of the results. Another mammogram, an ultrasound, or an MRI of the breast may be considered, in some cases.
Just after the procedure, the patient can dress back in their clothes and resume their normal routine. If the patient experiences pain, tenderness, or soreness of the breast, the patient can get relief by applying a cool compress, taking a warm bath, wearing a supportive bra, using a heating pad on a low setting, and taking painkillers. The patient should take a shower after the mammogram but avoid the use of lotions, soaps, and antiperspirants containing metallic particles.