Mammography

• A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm area.
• A change in the size or shape of the breast.
• A dimple or puckering in the skin of the breast.
• A nipple turned inward into the breast.
• Fluid, other than breast milk, from the nipple, especially if it's bloody.
• Scaly, red, or swollen skin on the breast, nipple, or areola (the dark area of skin that is around the nipple).
• Dimples in the breast that look like the skin of an orange.
• There are no contraindications for mammography.

You will need to follow certain guidelines on the day of your mammogram. You can’t wear deodorants, body powders, or perfumes. Also, you shouldn’t apply any ointments or creams to your breasts or underarms. These substances can distort the images or look like calcifications, or calcium deposits, so it’s important to avoid them.

Be sure to tell your radiologist before the exam if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. In general, you won’t be able to receive a screening mammogram at this time, but if necessary, your doctor can order other screening methods, such as an ultrasound.

How the procedure is performed

After undressing from the waist up and taking off any necklaces, a technician will give you a smock or gown that ties in the front. Depending on the testing facility, you may either stand or sit during your mammogram.

Each breasts fits onto a flat X-ray plate. A compressor will then push the breast down to flatten the tissue. This provides a clearer picture of the breast. You might have to hold your breath for each picture. You may feel a small amount of pressure or discomfort, but it’s usually brief.

During the process, your doctor will review the images as they are made. They may order additional images that show different views if something is unclear or needs further attention. This happens quite frequently and shouldn’t be a cause for upset or panic.

Digital mammograms are sometimes used if they are available. These are especially helpful for women younger than 50 years old, who typically have denser breasts than older women.

A digital mammogram transforms the X-ray into an electronic picture of the breast that saves onto a computer. Images are immediately visible, so your radiologist doesn’t have to wait for the images. The computer can also help your doctor see images that might not have been very visible on a regular mammogram.

Abnormalities diagnosed with mammography:

• Calcium deposits (calcifications) in ducts and other tissues
• Masses or lumps
• Asymmetric areas on the mammogram
• Dense areas appearing in only one breast or one specific area on the mammogram
• New dense area that has appeared since your last mammogram