Mammography is a screening tool that uses X-rays to provide an image of the breast. These images, called mammograms, are used to find potential signs of breast cancer such as tumors, small clusters of calcium and abnormal changes in the skin. At this time, mammography is the best screening tool for breast cancer. It can find cancers at an early stage, when they are small and most responsive to treatment. Mammograms are usually done in a hospital, certified general radiology centre or in a mammography clinic.

General Tips

1. Since you have to undress from the waist up wear a top or shirt that you can remove easily.
2. Avoid wearing deodorants, antiperspirants, perfumes, powders or lotions under your arms or on your breasts the day of the exam. Ingredients in these products can show up on a mammogram and look like calcifications.

Mammography Procedure

The procedure is simple and short – it usually takes about 10  - 15 minutes. Each breast is compressed between two plates, and an X-ray image is made. Two views are taken, one from top to bottom and one from side to side. For some women, the pressure on the breasts can be uncomfortable.

Breast implants and mammography

Mammography is a safe and effective screening tool for women who have breast implants. However, it is important for a woman with implants to tell the technician before the procedure is done so that the mammography machine can be specially positioned to avoid full compression of the implant. If possible, choose a radiologist who is experienced in reading mammograms of women with breast implants.