Mammogram Prep
Preparing for Your Mammogram
Mammograms can save lives through early detection of breast cancer and other abnormalities. It is recommended women have a routine mammogram based on their age and risk factors. Whether it’s your first time or not, having a mammogram can still cause some anxiety.
Knowing what to do and how to prepare for one may help ease your fears. We are here for you every step of the way. Here are some suggestions when planning for a mammogram:
- If you have the option, choose a facility that specializes in mammograms. MetroWest Medical Center uses advanced radiology imaging technology and has a team of radiologists to care for you.
- Have your mammogram at the same facility each year for easy comparison of your results.
- At the time of scheduling, you will be asked a few questions to determine if you should be scheduled for a mammogram screening or diagnostic mammogram.
- Please inform us of the location of any prior mammograms so that we may retrieve your images prior to your appointment. Having your previous results for comparison allows our radiologists to identify breast changes earlier.
- Please inform the technologist if you have any current breast health concerns so that the radiologist can be notified. When you register, you will be asked to provide information regarding any prior breast surgeries or hormones taken, as well as family or personal history or family history of breast cancer.
- Please bring any completed forms, as this can help save you time.
- Schedule your mammogram when your breasts are not tender or swollen. Avoid scheduling a mammogram 5-7 days before your period. This is to prevent discomfort and to help your technologist capture the best pictures possible. The ideal time to schedule your exam is 5-7 days after your period.
- Avoid caffeinated food and drinks such as coffee, tea, soda or chocolates 5-7 days before your mammogram.
- On the day of the procedure, please do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts prior to the exam. These can produce artifacts on the mammogram which mimic calcium spots and may require retaking your images.
- If possible, wear loose-fitting, comfortable, two-piece clothing so you can remove only your top during the exam.
- Inquire when your results will be available. Follow-up with the facility if you don’t hear from them within the time frame they give you.
Mammogram FAQs
Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. These can appear on the mammogram as calcium spots.
Please do not wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam. These can produce artifacts on the mammogram which mimic calcium spots and may require repeat images to clear the area. For your convenience, we have deodorant which you may apply after your appointment if desired.
Consider wearing a two piece outfit so that you only have to remove your top and bra for the examination.
Ask when your results will be available; do not assume the results are normal if you do not hear from your doctor or our facility.
Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technician performing the exam.
The best time for a mammogram is one to two weeks following your period. You should avoid scheduling your mammogram during the week before your period if your breasts are tender during this time. Always inform your doctor or mammogram technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of the exam.
You should receive a letter with a summary of your results and your breast density within 2 weeks. If we need you to return for additional views we will contact you by phone. Do not assume the results are normal if you do not hear from your doctor or our facility.
Do not schedule your mammogram during the week before your period if your breasts are tender during this time. The best time for a mammogram is one to two weeks following your period. And always inform your doctor or mammogram technician if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
Yes, if possible, obtain your prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of the exam. This will allow the radiologist to detect subtle changes that may represent cancer.
Please describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
Diagnostic Imaging Services
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Types of Imaging Services
Learn more about the types of screening and tests we offer at MetroWest Medical Center. -
Mammogram
Get advanced breast care, treatment and screenings from breast specialists at MetroWest Medical Center. -
Automated Breast Ultrasound
Automated breast ultrasound (ABUS) is a secondary breast cancer screening test that can help detect cancer in patients with dense breasts.