How to Get the Most From a Mammogram

Most women recognize the importance of getting an annual mammogram to detect signs of breast cancer. Some women postpone these examinations because of concern about the discomfort or even fear of learning bad news. Once a woman overcomes these concerns, she should be sure she is getting the most from the procedure.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Schedule your appointment for the week after your period, if possible, if you are pre-menopausal. Your breasts are less tender at this time.
2. Take along your previous mammogram film if you are going to a new facility. You can call your previous facility and ask them to send you the film, or pick it up yourself, and take the film with you to the new facility. Pick up your films and keep them until your next appointment if you move to a new area or your previous medical facility is closing.
3. Tell your doctor as well as the radiologist any concerns you have about the condition of your breasts, especially if you have seen or felt anything unusual during your regular self-exam. You should also tell the doctor and radiologist about any other concerns that they might consider important in interpreting your results.
4. Check the credentials of the facility performing your mammogram. You can find standards in the Mammography Quality Standards Act of 1992. Every mammogram machine must be accredited. Radiologists, radiologic technologists and medical physicists must meet certain strict standards.
5. Ask if the facility uses film or digital mammography. Digital mammography can be more accurate than standard mammography, especially for women who have dense breasts, who are under the age of 50 or who are pre-menopausal or perimenopausal. See if the facility offers other breast imaging options such as ultrasound and breast MRI. (Be aware, however, that you shouldn't substitute an MRI screening for a mammogram, since some forms of cancer are only detectable with mammography.)
6. Ask how quickly results are sent to your physician and whether you can expect to receive a letter with your results.
7. Check out the FDA website for information about facilities and other resources.