The patient will first be requested to undress above the waist, and put on a provided wrap. A technician will then help position the breast for the mammogram. If the sex of the technician is of concern, inquiries should be made prior to the visit. A normal screening mammogram involves taking two views of each breast, and the whole procedure lasts about 20 minutes. The process involves the brief, a few seconds long, compression of the breasts. This is done to obtain the best possible image of all breast tissue. The compression may be uncomfortable, but if there is pain the technician and physician should be notified. To lessen discomfort and pain, it is suggested that patients avoid scheduling mammograms for the week before or during menstruation when breasts may be more sensitive. Also, it is suggested not to wear deodorant, powder, or cream under the arms so as not to interfere with the quality of the mammogram.(1) The image below is a labeled representation of a mammography machine.
Print
Email Page
