Mammography: 7 Things You Should Expect On Your First Exam

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in the world, and the most common among women. Fortunately, if it is diagnosed early, there is a good chance of a cure. Thus, the main forms of detection are annual mammography  and clinical examinations performed by a specialist.

Mammograms are not recommended for women under 45 years of age because the density of the breast tissue makes it more difficult to interpret the results and, consequently, to detect problems.

Also, the incidence of breast cancer at these stages is much lower.

If you are between 35 and 40 years old and are about to experience your first mammogram, you should certainly write down these tips.

1. You will feel uncomfortable compression

To obtain high-quality mammograms and to expose the patient as little as possible to radiation,  during the breast exam, gentle compression of the breasts is necessary. However, in some women this can cause pain and in others it can only be a slight discomfort.

This symptom does not imply anything negative by itself. This variation in sensation is very common,  because each woman has a very individual pain threshold.

If you feel pain, just remember that it will be for a few minutes and then it will be gone.

2. Avoid scheduling your first mammogram for a few days before your period

Preferably,  the mammogram should be done during the second and third week of the menstrual cycle. During this period, there is less density of the glandular tissue of the breasts, thus allowing the examination to be more detailed and with less discomfort.

In addition, during menstruation or in the next few weeks, breasts are usually more sensitive due to hormonal changes. This can add to the discomfort and pain during the exam.

3. Let me know if you have silicone implants

Silicone implants can  interfere with the visualization of the breasts on radiography. Therefore, it is extremely important to communicate to the technician who will perform the exam that you have implants.

The specialist should adjust the radiation dose so that the glands in the breasts are better visualized. The placement will also be slightly different depending on the size of the implants.

4. Put on two separate pieces of clothing

Normally you should take off the entire top of your garment and wear a disposable gown that your radiologist will give you for your first mammogram.

So, it  ‘s best to avoid unique pieces, like dresses or clothes that are difficult to take off.

Ideally, you should wear a button-down shirt on the day of the exam, so it’s easy to take it off and put it back on later. Think that going with too many clothes or items that are difficult to take off are situations that will make you waste time.

So, if you want to cut down on the exam time, wear a practical stop.

5. Avoid some underarm cosmetics

The patient should not apply any type of product on the breasts or armpits on the day of the exam. Since they can generate images in the result that will confuse the doctor, who may consequently give a wrong diagnosis.

We must pay special attention to those products that leave residues, such as creams, deodorants and talc.

To avoid any doubt, ask your doctor if your usual deodorant might cause any problems.

If you’re having a mammogram in the afternoon and don’t want to go through the day without deodorant, go to the bathroom before the exam and wash your armpits. After finishing, apply the deodorant again and you’re done!

6. Position yourself comfortably

At the time of the examination,  allow the radiologist to place it in the correct position  and let you know if it is too uncomfortable for you.

The positioning of the breasts in the device is very important for the entire gland to be examined, and for this to happen, the patient needs to feel relaxed.

Experts point out that any change in position during the exam can affect the result. So talk to the technician and look together for the best position for your first mammogram.

You should let them know about any limitations you have, such as muscle stiffness or difficulty lifting your arms, among others.

In addition, if in any case adopting the indicated position is impossible, which happens in rare cases, look for other methods to perform the exam, such as ultrasound.

7. Only the expert can explain the results

It is essential to know that the radiologist is the professional who will perform the examination, however he is not able to interpret the results.

It can describe the main factors found in mammography using terms specific to each type of lesion.

However, only your specialist doctor can explain the results in more detail. It’s important that you don’t get scared by any weird terms you see and don’t worry too much.

Give your doctor time to see the results and explain the real situation.

Keep peace of mind during your first mammogram

On your first mammogram, you may feel anxious because you’re not sure what to expect.

However, if you want to have a great quality of life, it is a reality that you cannot escape and it is essential to prepare at any time within the age of 40 or earlier, if you have risk factors.

Review the things you should expect from this exam, put your worries behind you, and discuss with your doctor the best time to perform the procedure.