Routine mammograms are key to maintaining breast health. Although the screening has a reputation for being uncomfortable, there are ways to ensure that your mammogram is a positive experience.
How to prepare for a mammogram
1. Pick the right time and place for your breast cancer screening. This means visiting a facility that specializes in mammograms and performs many tests each day. You also want to schedule your mammogram during a time when your breasts aren’t likely to be tender or swollen. For many people, that’s the week after their menstrual period. Paying attention to your body’s cycles can help reduce discomfort during the scan. It can also help get the best pictures possible.
2. Make sure your mammogram history is easily available. Images from prior years allow your care team to compare past mammograms with new images. If you go to the same facility each year for your mammogram, that information will be part of your chart. If you’re at a new facility, you can bring a CD of any prior breast images to your appointment.
3. Be smart about what you ingest before your mammogram. Decreasing your salt intake for about a week before your breast cancer screening can reduce the risk of water retention and bloating. For many people, this can make a mammogram more comfortable. The same goes for caffeine. If you limit tea, coffee, and soft drinks for a week or two before your mammogram, your breasts may be less tender. You can also take a pain reliever 45 to 60 minutes before your appointment. Acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen can decrease discomfort during the test.
4. Wear easy clothes and avoid personal-care products. On the day of your mammogram, avoid items like:
- Deodorant
- Antiperspirant
- Powder
- Cream
- Lotion
- Perfume
These products can contain metallic particles, which can be visible on your mammogram and cause confusion for the radiologist. At Temple Health, our screening centers offer cleaning and deodorant wipes for your comfort. Many of my patients throw deodorant and perfume in their bags so they can apply them after their screening is done, too. And you can simplify getting undressed and dressed at your appointment by wearing a two-piece outfit, like pants and a shirt. That way, you only need to remove your shirt and bra for the screening.
5. Talk to your care team. Let us know if you have breast implants or if you’re breastfeeding. If you know from a past mammogram that you have dense breasts, mention that as well. If you’ve had recent changes or problems with your breasts, or if your medical or family histories have changed, that’s vital data to share, too. The more information you provide, the better we’re able to keep you comfortable and get clear results—which might help prevent the need for additional testing.
What to expect from your mammogram
Many patients tell me that breast cancer screening is a piece of cake, especially compared to their worry beforehand. At Temple Health, we strive to make mammograms accessible, comfortable, and easy to understand.
After your test, your care team will reach out with the results. In some cases, additional images or tests might be needed. It’s important to keep in mind that most callbacks don’t result in a cancer diagnosis. At the time of your screening, we’ll let you know what kind of communication to expect. And if you have questions at any time, we are here to listen to your concerns and get you the information you need.
The first step in getting your mammogram is simply making an appointment. Call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule an appointment online to get the breast cancer screening you need.
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