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A
mammogram
is a special x-ray of your breast. It uses very low doses of
radiation to image the breast on x-ray film. A screening
mammogram is for anyone with no history of recent breast
problems or breast cancer.
 Does
a mammogram hurt?
Mammography is not painful, although some women do find it
slightly uncomfortable. The breast must be compressed ( or
flattened) to produce the clearest and most accurate x-ray
images. Compression also reduces the amount of radiation to the
breast tissue. In order to reduce any possible discomfort, you may wish
to schedule your mammogram 7- 10 days after your menstrual
cycle, when your breasts are less tender.
To
prepare for your
mammogram,
do not wear deodorant, powder or creams on your breasts or
underarms. These substances can leave a residue that may
interfere with the reading of your test.
What
if you have had mammograms done at another facility?
Please let your ordering physician know where your last
mammogram was performed so that we
can contact that facility and have your films sent to us.
In the event we do not have your
previous mammograms at the time of your exam,
your results will be delayed until the films can be
obtained for comparison.
 When
you arrive at Community HealthLink,
report to the reception area, where you will be required to give
your insurance information and sign your registration form. You
should arrive approximately 5 minutes prior to your appointment
time. After being registered, a licensed mammographer will
escort you to the dressing room, where you will be asked to
remove your clothing from the waist up and given a gown. The
mammographer will then review a medical history sheet with you
to obtain personal health information.
Then, your
exam will be performed, usually two different views of
each breast will be imaged. The mammographer will then develop the films and
review the images. The images will be read by a Board Certified Radiologist, and a report will be sent to your
physician. A personal letter concerning your results will be sent to your address. In the
event the radiologist needs additional views, you will be
contacted by one of the mammographers or by your physician’s
office to set up an appointment at the medical center.
Screening
Mammography-Community Healthlink |
