What is a Mammogram?
Mammography is an x-ray examination of the breast, used to screen for lesions before you or your doctor are aware of them as well as diagnose lesions that have been found through other means but need to be examined in more detail. Although many patients requiring mammography are female, there are also men who require this examination. Mobile breast screening options are also available.
How to Prepare
As with any kind of x-ray, please dress comfortably. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any jewelry you are wearing.
What to Expect
The technologist doing your test will explain what he or she is doing. In brief, a device will be used to compress your breast. This helps to produce detailed pictures of the inside of your breast. You will experience some pressure, discomfort and soreness that will last for a brief time after the test.
Results that Matter
The images of your breast will be reviewed by a doctor specializing in radiology (radiologist). The radiologist will determine if the lump in the breast is normal tissue, a cyst, or a tumor and will send the report to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results of the test and your next steps.
For more information, speak with your local health care provider.
