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EARLY DETECTION > Screening mammography > What will happen when I have a mammogram?
SCREENING MAMMOGRAPHY
WHAT WILL HAPPEN WHEN I HAVE A MAMMOGRAM?
Before the mammogram, the technologist will tell you what is going to happen. You will stand in front of an x-ray machine specially designed for mammograms. The technologist will place your breast on a plate which holds the x-ray film. A second plate will slowly come down to spread out your breast tissue evenly. By doing this, the technologist is able to get a clear picture of your breast with only the lowest dose of radiation. You will feel some pressure on your breast but only for a few seconds while the mammogram is being taken. This is not harmful to your breast tissue. Four x-ray pictures will be taken, two of each breast. The technologist will review the pictures to make sure they are of good quality and may take extra pictures, if needed.
You will feel some pressure on your breast. Most women experience little discomfort during mammography. A few women experience some pain, but it lasts for only a few seconds. If you feel pain or excessive discomfort during the x-ray, tell the technologist, who may be able to adjust the compression. The two of you can work together so you are as comfortable as possible.
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