Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Mammograms

1. What happens when a woman gets a mammogram?

   Before the mammogram is done, the woman prepares for the exam by removing her blouse or shirt and putting on a hospital gown. Mammograms have better results if the woman does not have on any deodorant, antiperspirant or lotion. The person taking the mammogram X-rays is called a radiological technician (RT). The RT will help the woman stand in the right position in front of the mammogram unit. One breast then the other is placed on a clear, flat plate. Another plate is lowered onto the breast to compress it in order for the X-rays to go through the breast and produce an accurate film. Once the two breasts are X-rayed, the breasts are done again at a different angle.

   When finished, the RT usually checks to make sure the films are good ones. If not, that film will be done again.

   Some mammograms are done on a mobile unit, rather than in a clinic or hospital. The process is the same, except the RT might not be able to check the films right away.

2. Who should get a mammogram and how often?

   Women age 40-49 should get a mammogram at least every other year and perhaps every year if recommended by her doctor. All women over the age of 50 should get a mammogram every year.

   For those women who are at higher risk for getting breast cancer than the average woman, mammograms might start at an earlier age, such as 30–35. However, mammograms aren’t as accurate when done on younger women due to the type of tissue in the breast.

3. Can a mammogram always find breast cancer?

   Mammograms are quite accurate, especially in women over 50. However, mammograms are not perfect. Sometimes a mammogram film will show something that might be a tumor, but further tests show that it is not. Conversely, a mammogram film will sometimes look like everything is normal, but the woman actually has a small tumor. Because no screening exam is perfect, women should use three methods for finding breast cancer early: mammograms, clinical breast exams and breast self exams.

4. What happens if the doctor feels a lump, but the mammogram doesn’t show anything?

   Whenever a doctor or nurse finds a suspicious lump during a clinical breast exam, extra tests should be done, even if the mammogram results are normal. Most often the woman will get an ultrasound, which is a painless breast exam that uses sound waves. Another option is to see a breast specialist, such as a breast surgeon, who will repeat the clinical breast exam.
    

Note: The information given above is for educational purposes only. These questions and answers should not replace a discussion with a doctor if you think you might have breast or cervical cancer.

Last Updated: 04/10/2006

                                                    Breast & Cervical Cancer Project / Links