Feeling anxious about getting a mammogram is quite common among many women. However, being informed about the entire process can alleviate anxiety and ensure everything runs smoothly.
Here are some practical tips and insights on how to prepare for your mammogram, along with advice to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
Before Your Mammogram: Preparation Tips
Choosing the Optimal Time for Your Mammogram
Scheduling your mammogram when your breasts are least likely to be tender can make the process more comfortable. For women who haven’t experienced menopause, this is typically the week after your menstrual cycle.
Should You Get a Mammogram During Your Period?
It’s advisable to schedule your mammogram for after your period to avoid the tender phase that usually occurs before and during your menstrual cycle.
Pre-Mammogram Preparations
Should you decide against showering on the day of your mammogram, ensure you cleanse your neck, chest, arms, and underarms of any beauty products the evening before, as certain ingredients might interfere with your screening results. The specifics of which beauty products to avoid will be covered in more detail below.
Timing Your First Mammogram
For those around 40, your physician might have discussed starting regular mammogram screenings. If you’re younger but have breast cancer risk factors, a discussion with your doctor about early screening might be pertinent.
Managing Discomfort
Wondering about the discomfort? While mammograms are generally not painful for most, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever an hour before your appointment can help ease any potential discomfort.
Avoiding Certain Beauty Products
To prevent false readings, it’s best to refrain from applying beauty products on your chest and arms before your mammogram. Specific guidance on deodorants, makeup, and soaps will be provided below.
Eating and Drinking Normally
You can eat and drink as usual before your mammogram, as it does not require fasting.
What to Wear
You’ll be asked to undress from the waist up for the mammogram, so wearing a two-piece outfit might be more convenient. However, jewelry like necklaces should be fine, although the technologist might need to adjust it.
During Your Mammogram: What to Expect
The mammogram process is quick and designed to be as comfortable as possible. The procedure involves compression of the breast tissue to obtain high-quality images, but this should cause only mild, temporary discomfort.
After Your Mammogram: Post-Procedure
Once the images are taken, you can dress and typically resume your day immediately. Discomfort post-mammogram is rare, but pain relievers can help if needed. Results are usually delivered within a few days for screening mammograms, while diagnostic mammogram results may be provided sooner.
Understanding Mammogram Results
Being called back for further imaging doesn’t necessarily indicate breast cancer. It’s often to clarify or examine an area more closely. A negative result means no cancer was found, and regular screenings should continue.
This overview aims to demystify the mammogram experience and encourage women to approach their screenings with confidence and peace of mind.
