Mammography

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast taken with a low dose of radiation. The breast is gently flattened between two plates so the imaging plate can capture clear, detailed views of the tissue. Because it can show very small changes deep inside the breast, mammography is the standard tool used to look for early signs of breast cancer.

Mammograms are mainly used to screen healthy women for breast cancer before any symptoms appear, when treatment tends to be most effective. They are also used to investigate a specific concern, such as a new lump, thickening, pain, or nipple change. Detecting cancer at an early stage often means simpler treatment and better outcomes.

Little preparation is needed. On the day of your scan, avoid using deodorant, talcum powder, perfume, or lotion on your chest and underarms, as these can show up on the images and blur the results. Wearing a two-piece outfit makes it easy to undress from the waist up. Tell the team if you might be pregnant or are breastfeeding.

You will undress from the waist up and stand in front of the X-ray machine. A radiographer positions one breast at a time on a flat plate, and a second plate presses down to flatten it for a few seconds while the image is taken. Usually two views of each breast are captured. The whole appointment generally takes only a few minutes.

A specialist doctor reviews your images and sends a written result, often within a couple of weeks. Most mammograms are normal. If an area looks unclear or unusual, you may be invited back for more pictures, an ultrasound, or sometimes a biopsy. Being recalled is common and does not mean you have cancer; it simply allows a closer look.