Mammography

What you Need to Know

A mammogram is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. It is used to diagnose any changes in the breast such as cysts, benign lumps or breast cancers often before you can feel them.

F.A.Q

-F.A.Q: What is Mammography?

-F.A.Q: How long will the scan take?

-F.A.Q: Is the mammogram safe?

-F.A.Q: How should I prepare for the scan?

-F.A.Q: What should I expect when having a mammogram?

-F.A.Q: After the scan

-F.A.Q: When will I get the results?

-F.A.Q: Can I bring a relative or friend with me?

-What is Mammography?

A mammogram is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to examine breasts. It is used to diagnose any changes in the breast such as cysts, benign lumps or breast cancers often before you can feel them.

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-How long will the scan take?

A mammogram will normally take 15 minutes to complete.

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-Is the mammogram safe?

As there is a small exposure to x-rays there is some risk to your health but this is very low. There and no known side effects of the scan.
If you are or think that you may be pregnant, it is essential that you tell our radiology team before your scan.

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-How should I prepare for the scan?

There is no special preparation required for the scan but we ask you please not to wear talcum powder, perfume or deodorant on the day of your examination as this can show on the film and appear as an abnormality. Always bring any previous Mammograms to your appointment for comparison.

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-What should I expect when having a mammogram?

On your arrival for your mammogram, you will firstly complete the registration process with our receptionist and also a short questionnaire. One of our radiographer team will then bring you to the examination room, ensure that you are comfortable and explain what is going to happen as part of your scan. You will be asked to change into a gown and you will be provided with a tray to put your personal items into and which you can keep with you.
You will be asked to stand in front of the x-ray machine. A Mammogram requires that the breast be compressed (or squeezed) between two plates. This allows all the tissue within the breast to be spread out as much as possible so that a high detail picture is obtained. This compression may be uncomfortable but will only be applied for a very short time and is released automatically when the x-ray is finished. Both breasts will be imaged one at a time.

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-After the scan

You can eat and drink normally following your scan. In most cases you will be well enough to drive home afterwards

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-When will I get the results?

The images captured will be sent to the radiologist who will send the final report to your doctor. You will need to contact your own doctor directly to get the results of your scan.

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-Can I bring a relative or friend with me?

Yes but for safety reasons, they will only be allowed in the examination room in special circumstances. Children will not be allowed in the room with you during the scan.

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