Mammography – What You Need to Know
Mammography is an essential diagnostic as well as screening tool for early detection of breast cancer. It results in the detection of abnormalities prior to symptoms, and the difference in survival is dramatic. One of the most powerful ways to detect breast cancer early, mammography has become an indispensable tool in women’s health care. In this blog, we will be covering everything you need to know about it, from who should be screened, what the procedure entails, and how to go about it, including how to find a mammography near me.
What is Mammography?
Mammography is a special type of X-ray imaging that is used to identify changes in breast tissue. It is an important tool to help detect breast cancer early, before lumps may be felt or symptoms appear.
There are two main types:
- Screening mammography — a routine test for women who don’t have any symptoms, meant to detect cancer early.
- Diagnostic mammography — a more comprehensive exam that is recommended if there are visible signs, like a lump or breast pain.
Basically, the breast will be briefly compressed between two plates to produce clear and accurate images.
Mammography Screening: Who Should Get It?
Early detection is paramount and can contribute significantly to increased treatment success; this in turn requires the provision of regular mammography screening. In the UK, women aged 50–71 are invited for NHS breast screening every three years. Those with a family history or known genetic susceptibility (e.g., positive BRCA1 or BRCA2 status) may be encouraged to begin earlier or screen more frequently.
For other very urgent advice, make an appointment with your GP or see a specialist. Detailed NHS mammography age guidelines may also be found under Mammography Age NHS UK Guidelines.
Mammography Procedure: What to Expect
Understanding what to expect during a mammogram can help calm nerves and make you feel more prepared:
- Do not use deodorants, lotions, or powders on your chest the day of the test; they may be picked up on the X-ray image.
- Each breast is gently pressed between two plates during the procedure to distribute the tissue evenly. This helps produce clearer images and makes it possible to identify abnormalities.
- The compression may be briefly uncomfortable but lasts only a couple of seconds.
- The entire procedure takes 20–30 minutes, and results are generally ready within a couple of weeks.
- It won’t be pleasant (it sure wasn’t for me), but the rewards are worth 30 seconds of discomfort.
Mammography for Small Breasts: Is It Effective?
Many women ask whether mammography works for small breasts. The answer is yes. Most newer mammography systems can accommodate any breast size by adjusting compression accordingly.
Ultrasound or an MRI can be ordered, if needed, to verify the accuracy of the placement of the needle. Highly trained technologists keep the quality of the scan consistent, no matter the size of the breast.
Breast Implants and Mammography: Special Considerations
If you have breast implants, it is crucial that you tell your technician ahead of time. Breast implants can obstruct breast tissue on a standard mammogram, but specialised techniques, such as the Eklund displacement views, can help produce more accurate results.
Further imaging, such as an ultrasound, might be appropriate to evaluate breast tissue in addition to the implants. The approach is a little different when you have implants, but it doesn’t prevent you from having the test done.
Does Mammography Cause Cancer? Debunking Myths
One question that is raised often is: “Does mammography cause cancer?” The fact is that mammography uses a very low dose of radiation, and there is a large body of research that validates its safety.
The many advantages of early cancer detection far outweigh the radiation risks. There is no scientific evidence showing that mammograms raise cancer risk.
Mammography Test Price: What’s the Cost?
The price of a mammogram varies depending on where you have it. In the United Kingdom, the NHS provides free routine mammograms to those who fall into the eligible age group as part of a national screening programme.
For those who opt for private care, prices can differ among providers. Here at Chase Lodge Hospital, we offer affordable prices and outstanding service. As always, you will want to check with individual facilities for up-to-date details.
Finding a Mammography Near Me: How to Book
Scheduling a mammogram is easy. You can:
- Go to your nearest hospital, breast clinic, or private scanning centre.
- Find your nearest service using the NHS breast screening directory.
- Phone your GP or healthcare practitioner to make a booking.
- If you’re going private, check availability, referral requirements, and insurance cover in advance.
Conclusion
Mammography is a critical element in the early detection of breast cancer because it can show changes in the breast before a patient or physician can feel them. If you’re over 50 or have any risk factors, timely screening could change everything. Always adhere to UK mammography age recommendations and consult with your physician if you’re uncertain about when to begin.
At Chase Lodge Hospital, we are dedicated to helping you stay one step ahead of your breast health.
Call to Action:
Prioritise your breast health today! Schedule a mammography screening and discuss your individual needs with a specialist. Early detection saves lives.
