I finally did it. I got over my fear and had my first mammogram. Going in I didn’t know what to expect, but my experience was great! My technician was nice and very professional. She explained every step to me and made me feel very comfortable. After the test was complete, she let me know how I would receive my results. She also told me that since I was a first timer, I might need to go back in for a few more pictures. This is very common and may be needed to establish a baseline for future mammograms. Regular mammograms are the best test doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to 3 years before it can be felt.
P.S. My results were
normal. Yahoo!
When
should I get a mammogram?
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPTF) recommends that women who are 50 -74 years old and are at
average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every 2 years. Women who are 40
– 49 years old should talk to their health care provider about when to start
and how often to get a mammogram. The Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines for Women chart compares recommendations from several leading
organizations.
Knowing how to prepare
for your mammogram can help ease your mind and speed the process.
- Visit
the NYS Cancer Services Program website for up to date screening information.
- Don’t
wear deodorant, perfume, lotion or powder under your arms or on your
breasts on the day of your exam. Foreign particles could show up in an
x-ray.
- Let
technician
and staff know if you have breast implants. They may need to take more
pictures than a regular mammogram.
- You
have the right to a written report of the results within 30 days of
receiving a mammogram, as well as the original mammogram x-ray pictures.
Call if you don’t get your results, don’t assume everything is normal.
- Tell
the clinic if you have physical disabilities that may make it hard for you
to sit up, lift your arms, or hold your breath.
How is a mammogram performed?
- You will need to take off your
shirt and bra.
- You
will stand in front of the x-ray machine.
- Your
breast is placed on a small platform.
- A
clear plastic plate presses down on the breast for a few seconds. Some
women say the pressure feels uncomfortable, but most don’t find it
painful.
- The
technician will take several pictures of the breast.
- A
specialist then looks at the x-ray pictures to see if there are any
changes in the breast.
The Cancer Services Program of Northeastern NY provides free breast, cervical and colon cancer screening to uninsured, eligible residents. With proper precautions, cancer screening can be done safely. Give their office a call with any questions 518-324-7671.
Jennifer Anderson
WIC Project Counselor
Division of Health
Planning and Promotion
