Here are some tips to ensure your mammogram experience is comfortable and accurate:
Use a facility that either specialises in mammography or does numerous mammograms a day.
If you are satisfied the facility is of a high quality, continue to go there on a regular basis so that your mammograms can be compared from year to year.
If you are going to a facility for the first time, bring a list of the places, dates of mammograms, biopsies, or other breast treatments you have had before.
If you have had mammograms at another facility, you should make every attempt to get those mammograms to bring with you to the new facility (or have them sent there) so they can be compared to the new ones.
On the day of the exam, do not wear deodorant or antiperspirant; some of these contain substances that can interfere with the reading of the mammogram by appearing on the x-ray film as white spots.
You may find it more convenient to wear a skirt or pants so that you will only need to remove your blouse for the exam.
Schedule your mammogram for when your breasts are not too tender or swollen to help reduce discomfort. This will also assist in obtaining a good, clear picture. Try to avoid the week just before your menstrual cycle.
Always describe any breast symptoms or problems you are having with the radiographer who is doing the mammogram.
Be prepared to describe any pertinent medical history such as prior surgeries, hormone use, family or personal history of breast cancer.
Discuss any new findings or problems in your breasts with your doctor or nurse before having a mammogram. Discuss the results of your mammogram with your doctor.
Information obtained from www.cansa.org.za.
