MAMMOGRAPHY

 Mammography 

what is a mammography?  

A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast. Doctors use mammograms to look for signs of breast cancer in its early stages. Regular mammograms can detect breast cancer in its early stages, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.

How is a mammogramy performed?

You will stand in front of a special x-ray machine. A technologist will place your breast on a plastic plate. She will then cover that breast with another plate, pressing firmly. The plates will flatten the breast and hold it still while the x-ray is taken.

What are the different types of mammograms?

🔎Screening mammogram. A screening mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to detect breast changes in women who have no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. It usually involves 2 X-rays of each breast. Using a mammogram, it is possible to detect a tumor that cannot be felt.

🔎Diagnostic mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram is an X-ray of the breast used to diagnose unusual breast changes, such as a lump, pain, nipple thickening or discharge, or a change in breast size or shape. A diagnostic mammogram is also used to evaluate abnormalities detected on a screening mammogram. It is a basic medical tool and is appropriate in the workup of breast changes, regardless of a woman's age.

What are the reasons for a mammogram?

Mammography may be used either for screening or to make a diagnosis. Women older than 30 years should undergo diagnostic mammography if they have symptoms, such as a palpable lump, breast skin thickening or indentation, nipple discharge or retraction, erosive sore of the nipple, or breast pain.

A mammogram may be used to evaluate breast pain when physical examination and history are not conclusive. Women with breasts that are dense, "lumpy," and/or very large may be screened with mammography, as physical examination may be difficult to perform.

Women who are at high risk for breast cancer or with a history of breast cancer may be routinely screened with mammography.

There may be other reasons for your health care provider to recommend a mammography.

How do I prepare for a mammogram?

☝SCHEDULING : Breasts can be tender the week before and during menstruation, so try to schedule your mammogram for one to two weeks after your period starts. If you have breast implants, please notify the office when you schedule the exam.

☝PRECAUTIONS : If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please check with your doctor before scheduling the exam. Other options will be discussed with you and your doctor.

☝BREASTFEEDING : Please notify the technologist if you are currently breast-feeding.

☝PERSONAL HYGIENE : Do not use any deodorant, powder, lotion or perfume on the day of your exam.

☝CLOTHING : You must remove your clothing from the waist up and change into a patient gown. A locker will be provided to secure your personal belongings. Please remove all piercings and leave all jewelry and valuables at home.

SOURCES:

✔¿What is a mammography? (2023, 22 agosto). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/spanish/cancer/breast/basic_info/mammograms.htm#:~:text=%C2%BFQu%C3%A9%20es%20una%20mamograf%C3%ADa%3F,-Ingl%C3%A9s%20(English)&text=Las%20mamograf%C3%ADas%20habituales%20son%20las,mama%20en%20sus%20etapas%20iniciales

✔ Mammogram procedure. (2023, 7 julio). Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/mammogram-procedure