A mammogram is a standard health screening for women beginning at the age of 40. If you have had a first-degree relative – your mother or sister – who has had breast cancer, your doctor may recommend that you begin having mammograms at an earlier age. This scan is a critical step in taking good care of your health because it is a potentially life-saving procedure for its ability to detect even tiny tumors or lesions in the breast tissue.
If you are about to have a mammogram or are considering having your first one, here are a few tips for making the process an easy and positive experience:
Choose a Facility that Specializes in Mammograms
Your doctor or gynecologist will likely recommend a reputable clinic or hospital that performs screenings for women’s health. It is ideal to choose a hospital system with their very own women’s health center where they perform mammograms every day.
Stick to a Single Facility for All of Your Mammograms
If you have a pleasant experience with your first mammogram, try to go to the same facility for your future mammograms. They will already have your results from prior scans, and this is useful for future comparison.
Take Your Health Records With You
If you’ve had a biopsy or have received treatment for an issue with one of your breasts, bring a copy of these records with you to your appointment. This information will be very useful to the staff when performing your mammogram, and it will also help in the interpretation of your results. Tell the staff about your records when you check-in, and they will tell you who you should give them to at the facility.
Go After Your Period
A mammogram can be uncomfortable for women, but you can help to minimize the discomfort by going after your period is over and before your next one begins. This will help to ensure that your breasts are not feeling especially tender or sensitive during the scan.
Get Comfortable With Your Mammogram Technician
Don’t be shy about chatting with your mammogram technician. These technicians are trained in getting patients comfortable during the screening, and they want the experience to be pleasant for you.
The more relaxed you are, the easier it will be for the technician to get good results.
Don’t Wear Deodorant
Anything you put on your armpits can show up on the film, which is why it’s recommended not to wear deodorant, antiperspirant, lotion, cream, or powder anywhere in the upper torso area on the day of your screening. You can bring your deodorant with you to apply after the scan is complete.
Wear Easy-to-Remove Top Clothing
Wear a top that is easy to remove on the day of your mammogram. A button-down, zip-down, or V-neck top is ideal, and you will be allowed to keep on your pants, shorts, or skirt during the scan.
Mammogram Screening in Wooster, Ohio
Here at Wooster Community Hospital, we offer state-of-the-art mammography services for the early detection of cancerous cells in breast tissue. We use 3D mammograms for clearer images and to reduce your radiation exposure. Our gentle, friendly, and compassionate technicians will make sure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
If you are at high risk for breast cancer or you are due for your next mammogram, schedule your screening now. Contact Wooster Community Hospital today by calling us at (330) 263-8660. We look forward to being your healthcare partner for a lifetime of good health!
