What Is a Mammogram

A mammogram is an image of the breast obtained by X-ray. Mammograms are used by doctors to detect early indications of breast cancer. Frequent mammograms can detect breast cancer at an early stage, often even three years before any symptoms appear.

How is a mammogram done?

In front of a unique X-ray machine, you will stand. Your breast will be placed on a plastic plate by a technologist. Your breast will be firmly pressed from above by another plate. The breast will be held still during the X-ray by the plates’ ability to flatten it. There will be some strain on you. To create a side view of the breast, repeat these procedures. In the same manner, the other breast will be X-rayed. After that, you’ll have to wait while the technologist reviews the X-rays to make sure no more photographs need to be taken. Remember that the technologist is unable to provide you with the results of your mammography. Because every woman’s breasts are unique, every woman’s mammography may appear slightly different.

What does having a mammogram feel like?

In front of a unique X-ray machine, you will stand. Your breast will be placed on a plastic plate by a technologist. Your breast will be firmly pressed from above by another plate. The breast will be held still during the X-ray by the plates’ ability to flatten it. There will be some strain on you. To create a side view of the breast, repeat these procedures. In the same manner, the other breast will be X-rayed. After that, you’ll have to wait while the technologist reviews the X-rays to make sure no more photographs need to be taken. Remember that the technologist is unable to provide you with the results of your mammography. Because every woman’s breasts are unique, every woman’s mammography may appear slightly different.