What is a mammogram?
Mammogram is an X-ray picture made of the breasts. It can detect cancers very small in size, frequently, still before the patient or her doctor could palpate a nodule or tumour. This is the best way of the detection of early breast cancer. For mammography a low dose of X-rays is used.
How is it made?
The X-ray assistant takes two X-ray photos of each breast. The breast is carefully pressed between two plastic plates so that the picture may be better and less radiation is needed.
How does it feel to get a mammogram?
Most women do not find this examination painful. Some feel it unpleasant and painful. You should think of the fact that an X-ray photo takes only a few seconds but it can save your life. If your breasts are sensitive you should better avoid drinking caffeine-containing drinks (coffee, coke) two weeks before the examination. One hour before the examination you can take a mild painkiller.
How to prepare for the examination?
The upper clothes have to be taken off so it is better to wear a two-piece costume. Deodorant, dusting powder or cream must not be applied to the underarm as it can disturb X-ray recording.
Can all cancers be detected by mammography?
No. One out of ten cancers cannot be detected by mammography. This is why the regular monthly checking of the breasts at home is essential. If you find a nodule or any other abnormality, immediately consult a doctor.
Mammogram is an X-ray picture made of the breasts. It can detect cancers very small in size, frequently, still before the patient or her doctor could palpate a nodule or tumour. This is the best way of the detection of early breast cancer. For mammography a low dose of X-rays is used.
How is it made?
The X-ray assistant takes two X-ray photos of each breast. The breast is carefully pressed between two plastic plates so that the picture may be better and less radiation is needed.
How does it feel to get a mammogram?
Most women do not find this examination painful. Some feel it unpleasant and painful. You should think of the fact that an X-ray photo takes only a few seconds but it can save your life. If your breasts are sensitive you should better avoid drinking caffeine-containing drinks (coffee, coke) two weeks before the examination. One hour before the examination you can take a mild painkiller.
How to prepare for the examination?
The upper clothes have to be taken off so it is better to wear a two-piece costume. Deodorant, dusting powder or cream must not be applied to the underarm as it can disturb X-ray recording.
Can all cancers be detected by mammography?
No. One out of ten cancers cannot be detected by mammography. This is why the regular monthly checking of the breasts at home is essential. If you find a nodule or any other abnormality, immediately consult a doctor.