What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an x-ray image of your breasts. It can be used either for breast cancer screening or for diagnostic purposes, such as to investigate symptoms or unusual findings on another imaging test.
During a mammogram, your breasts are compressed between two firm surfaces to spread out the breast tissue. Then an x-ray captures black-and-white images that are displayed on a computer screen and examined for signs of cancer.
How can I prepare for a mammogram?
A lot of woman are a bit nervous for their mammogram, which we fully understand. To prepare for your mammogram follow the advice below:
- Schedule the test for a time when your breasts are least likely to be tender. If you menstruate, that's usually during the week after your menstrual period
- Bring your prior mammogram images. If you're going to a new facility for your mammogram, request to have any prior mammograms placed on a CD. Bring the CD with you to your appointment so that the radiologist can compare past mammograms with your new images
- Don't use deodorant before your mammogram. Avoid using deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams or perfumes under your arms or on your breasts. Metallic particles in powders and deodorants could be visible on your mammogram and cause confusion
How is a mammogram performed?
Before your mammogram you’re asked to remove neck jewellery and clothes from the waist up, covering you upper body with a given gown
During the mammogram procedure, you stand in front of an x-ray machine specially designed for mammography. Our mammographer (a technician specialised in performing mammography) places one of your breasts on a platform and raises or lowers the platform to match your height. The mammographer will position your head, arms and torso in a way to allow an unobstructed view of your breast.
Your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue. The pressure isn't harmful, but it can cause some discomfort. Please communicate with our staff if the discomfort becomes too much.
Your breast must be compressed to even out its thickness and permit the x-rays to scan the breast tissue. The pressure also holds your breast still to decrease blurring from movement and minimises the dose of radiation needed. During the brief x-ray exposure, you'll be asked to stand still and hold your breath.
Once the images are made, our mammographer may ask you to wait while she checks the quality of the images. If the views are inadequate for technical reasons, you may have to repeat part of the test. The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Can I do everything after the mammogram?
There are no restrictions after the mammogram is performed, and you can resume normal activities.
What are the possible outcomes?
To give an overview of the possible outcomes of the mammogram, we have listed the categories below:
Normal mammogram
Requires no further follow up. You are advised to follow the breast cancer screening programme and do the next screening mammogram after two years.
Abnormal mammogram
Patients will be offered an appointment with a breast surgeon, to allow further investigation, with one or more of the following:
- Clinical examination
- Special view mammography
- Ultrasound examination (useful in younger patients and to identify cysts particularly)
- Fine-needle aspiration and cytology
How often do I need a mammogram?
Based on the international and national guidelines for breast cancer screening all females from age 40 years and above need to have a screening mammogram every two (2) years if there are no symptoms.