Chestnut Hill Women’s Center expert breast imaging and bone health services for women across the Philadelphia region. Our two locations — at Temple Health – Chestnut Hill Hospital in Philadelphia and in Blue Bell — offer screening and diagnostic mammography, including 3D mammography, breast ultrasound, and DEXA bone density scans. Both locations use advanced imaging technology and are staffed by registered mammographers and clinical specialists, with results interpreted by board-certified radiologists.
Office Address
Chestnut Hill Women's Center
8835 Germantown Ave
1st Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19118
215-248-6100
Office Hours
Monday–Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Friday: 7:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Closed Saturday and Sunday
Services
Mammography
We offer screening and diagnostic mammography at both locations, including 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) — an advanced imaging technology that captures multiple slices of breast tissue for improved detection, particularly helpful for women with dense breasts.
- Screening mammograms — recommended annually for women starting at age 40
- Diagnostic mammograms — for women with symptoms or abnormal screening results
- 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) — improved detection for dense breast tissue
Mammograms are performed by registered mammographers and read by board-certified radiologists.
Breast Ultrasound
Breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of breast tissue without radiation. It is often used as a follow-up to mammography or as a complementary screening tool for women with dense breasts.
- Evaluates suspicious areas identified on mammography
- Helps distinguish between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses
- Can be used for additional screening in women with dense breast tissue
- No radiation exposure — safe for follow-up imaging
DEXA Scan
DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) is the gold standard test for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk. The scan is quick, painless, and uses very low-dose radiation.
- Recommended for women 65 and older
- Earlier screening for women with osteoporosis risk factors (family history, low body weight, certain medications, early menopause)
- Quick (typically 10-30 minutes), painless, and noninvasive
- Results help guide bone health decisions, including treatment for osteoporosis
How to prepare for your mammogram
- Schedule your mammogram for the week after your period if you still menstruate — breasts are typically less tender.
- Do not wear deodorant, antiperspirant, lotion, powder, or perfume on the day of your exam — they can interfere with imaging.
- Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to undress from the waist up.
- Bring prior mammogram images or records if you've had imaging at another facility, so our radiologists can compare.
- Plan for the appointment to take approximately 30 minutes total.
How to prepare for your breast ultrasound
- No special preparation is required.
- Wear a two-piece outfit for easier access to the imaging area.
- If your ultrasound is a follow-up to a recent mammogram, bring those records or the appointment information.
How to prepare for your DEXA scan
- Avoid taking calcium supplements for 24 hours before your DEXA scan.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or hooks. You may be asked to change into a gown.
- Tell your technologist if you have recently had any imaging exam involving contrast (barium, iodine) — DEXA may need to be rescheduled.
- Tell your technologist if you may be pregnant — DEXA is generally not performed during pregnancy.
What to Expect
Most patients describe a screening mammogram as briefly uncomfortable rather than painful. Each breast is compressed for a few seconds while images are captured — the compression is necessary for clear imaging. The full appointment typically takes 30 minutes; the compression itself takes less than a minute per breast.
Breast ultrasound and DEXA scans are painless and involve no compression. A breast ultrasound takes 15-30 minutes; a DEXA scan takes 10-30 minutes.
Is it time for your annual gynecologic exam? Schedule your appointment at our Chestnut Hill Gynecology location conveniently located on the same premises.
Cancellation/No Show Policy
Please give 24 hours’ notice for all cancellations.
How to Obtain a Prescription Renewal
Patients can request prescriptions renewals by calling the office. Prescription renewals require 24 hours (1 day) notice.