What You Need To Know About Mammograms

With the?CDC reporting?breast cancer as the second most common cancer in women, and the second-leading cause of cancer death, it’s critical women learn how to be proactive with their breast health. While mammograms can’t prevent breast cancer, they can detect it early on when survival rates are the highest.

Thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic, mammogram screenings have significantly dropped, as per the stay-at-home orders. Now that the pandemic is over, it’s important for women to begin getting regular mammograms again.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is simply an x-ray picture of the breast, taken in order to look for signs of breast cancer. In addition to breast cancer, mammograms are able to detect masses, calcifications, distortions, and asymmetries. Regular mammograms are highly recommended by doctors, as they can find signs of cancer that won’t be felt for up to three years.

How Often Should You Get Mammograms?

There is no one right answer for the correct number of mammograms an individual should get, as it varies with each person. Ask your doctor how often they recommend you get mammograms based on your own risk factors, health issues, and family history.

Generally, it’s recommended that women with the average risk of breast cancer start getting regular mammograms in their 40s. If you’re at an above-average risk, your doctor will likely have a different recommendation for you.

How Should You Prepare For a Mammogram?

If you menstruate, try to choose a day that you’re not currently menstruating for your mammogram. Because menstruation can make the breasts more tender, it’s suggested you wait until the week after your last menstrual period. If you’ve had prior mammograms done, bring the images with you.

You should be able to request that prior mammograms be placed on a CD, which you can then bring with you to the new facility. Doctors are able to compare and contrast old images with new ones, which can provide important medical and life-saving information. Additionally, refrain from wearing deodorant, lotions, creams, or anything else under your armpits. These can contain trace amounts of metal which can cause confusion in your mammogram results.

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Author - Staff Writer

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