Preparing for a mammogram can be a bit scary, especially if it is your first one.

But knowing what to expect can help you feel less nervous.

Are you looking to know more about mammograms and its procedure?

Mykare Health is here to guide you on the dos and don'ts before the procedure through this blog.

What is a Mammogram?

Mammogram is an X-ray examination of the breast which is used to detect and diagnose breast disease in women. Many times, mammograms can be painful but there are steps which can make them more comfortable and easier.

It is mainly used for the early detection of cancer and other breast diseases.

Mammograms take approximately 30 minutes. In this procedure, each breast will be compressed for 20 to 30 minutes.

Compression can be uncomfortable but it is very important because it allows the breast tissue to spread and flatten.

This ensures a clear view of the breast and reduces the amount of radiation needed to make an image. Annual mammograms become important after the age of 40. There are two types of mammograms.

The first one is called a screening mammogram which is a routine test to check for any cancer or changes. In this type of test, several images of the breast are taken with the use of a machine.

The other type is diagnostic mammogram which is usually done if you have a lump or any other symptom of breast cancer. They are more extensive than screening mammograms.

Many people experience pain and discomfort during mammograms. It depends on several factors like breast size, the skill set of the technician, and breast tenderness related to an extensive upcoming period.

Main Tips to Prepare for a Mammogram

Certain instructions need to be followed on the day of the mammogram appointment.

• Before your mammogram, you should thoroughly clean your neck, chest, arms, and underarms and don’t use any beauty products such as deodorant, lotions and creams because ingredients in certain products can impact your screening results. Keep reading for more information on what beauty products are acceptable.

• Don’t use any kinds of deodorants as metallic particles may be visible on mammograms which can cause confusion.

• Apply makeup only on your face and don’t put anything below the jawline as the particles in powders and makeup can appear in the mammogram causing unnecessary confusions.

• It is fine to take a shower before a mammogram with soap or body wash but avoid applying lotions, creams or powders after that.

• Mammograms are not fasting tests. So, drinking and eating will not affect the test results.

• It is important to dress comfortably. It is better to wear a separate top and bottom.

• There will be slight discomfort during the procedure as the breast is compressed but it will be mild and temporary.

• Most people don’t experience soreness after a mammogram. But if required, use a pain reliever like aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

• Usually, the mammogram results are available within a few days. Sometimes, a mammogram may show an abnormal finding that is not cancer. These results are called false positives and may lead to having more tests and procedures.

• Mammograms are the key to early detection.

• Make sure to schedule your mammogram when your breasts are least tender or swollen.

• Gather the important documents like Proof of identification, Proof of address, health insurance card.

Things to Strictly Avoid On the Day of the Mammogram

• Deodorants

• Antiperspirants

• Lotions

• Creams

• Powders

• Cosmetics

• Perfumes

• It is better to avoid wearing neck jewellery

• Don’t forget to take daily medications

• It is better not to do mammograms during periods as women's breasts are the most tender the week before and during the period.

Steps During Mammogram

• You'll need to strip down over the midsection to get a mammogram. The hospital staff will give you a wrap to wear.

• You and the technologist will be the only ones in the room during the mammogram.

• To get a great picture, your breast should be straightened or compacted. You'll remain before the machine, and the technologist will put your breast on the machine.

• The plastic upper plate is then brought down to pack your breast for around 10 to 15 seconds while the technologist takes an x-ray. You will then have to change position so your breast is compacted from one side to another before the following x-ray is taken.

• If you're getting a 3D mammogram (otherwise called computerized breast tomosynthesis, or DBT), the system is equivalent to the above, yet you'll see that the machine will move in a little bend, either over your breast or at the edge of your breast, for each picture. You may be approached to pause your breathing each time it's being finished.

• The entire methodology requires around 20 minutes.

• You could feel some inconvenience when your breasts are compacted, and for certain women it tends to be excruciating. Let the technologist know if it harms so they can attempt to change the pressure to your solace.

• Two images on each breast are taken for a screening mammogram.