Mammography Is Done In Two Ways :

Screening mammography : where a routine test is done to check for any signs of cancer.

Diagnostic mammography: which is done when there is a lump in breast or any other symptoms of breast cancer like pain, nipple discharge etc.

How Should I Prepare For The Mammogram?

• Do not apply deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms, or on your breast on the day of test as they appear as calcium spots on mammogram.
• Bring your previous mammograms as they are needed for comparison with current examination.
• Give details of any breast symptoms, history of breast surgery, past history of hormone use, family / personal history of breast cancer.
• Always inform doctor if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
• Do not schedule your mammogram for a week before your menstrual period if your breasts are tender during that time. The best time for mammography is one week following your period.

How Is Mammography Performed?

Mammography is performed on an outpatient basis. During mammography a female technologist will position your breast on a special platform and compress it softly with a plastic paddle. Then the x-ray is taken. The process is repeated in different positions and for the opposite breast.

What Will I Experience During & Aſter The Procedure ?

You will feel pressure on your breast as it is squeezed by compression paddle. Some women with sensitive breast may experience discomfort.

What Are The Benefits V/S Risks…??

Benefits : it increases detection of small tumours . When tumours are small, the woman has more treatment options. There is no risk associated with mammography . X-ray usually have no side effects in the typical diagnostic range for the examination. No radiation remains in body after an x-ray examination.

What Are Limitations Of Mammography ?

Sometimes initial mammography findings are not enough to determine the existence of a lesion with certainty. If a finding or spot seems suspicious, your radiologist may recommended further diagnostic studies. A normal breast look different for each woman on mammography & in women with increased breast density, it is difficult to see a small cancer on mammography. The appearance of image may be compromised if woman has undergone breast surgery or is having a breast implant. Inspite of few of these limitations , mammography is the best screening tool for breast cancer available today.

However, it dosen’t detect all breast cancers.