Mammography FAQs
Q. Is mammography painful?
A. During the exam, your breast is gradually pressed against the platform by a clear plastic plate. Pressure is applied for a few seconds to spread out the breast tissue. The pressure isn't harmful, but you may find it uncomfortable or even painful. Taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), about an hour before your mammogram might ease the discomfort of the test. If you have too much discomfort, inform the technologist.
Q. Why shouldn’t I wear deodorant?
A. Deodorant can show up on the films as micro-calcifications. This could necessitate taking additional unnecessary films.
Q. How often should I have a mammogram?
A. According to the American Cancer Society, yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as a woman is in good health. Clinical breast exam should be part of a periodic health exam, about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s and every year for women 40 and over. Women should know how their breasts normally feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care providers. Breast self-exam is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women at high risk (greater than 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Women at moderately increased risk (15% to 20% lifetime risk) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of adding MRI screening to their yearly mammogram. Yearly MRI screening is not recommended for women whose lifetime risk of breast cancer is less than 15%.
Q. Can people with really small breasts have mammograms?
A. Yes. In fact, mammography is not limited to just females. Men also get lumps and breast cancer, although it is rare.
