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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

For Consumers

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Mammography

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A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray picture of the breast.
 
 
Why should I have one?
 
Mammograms can help save lives. They are still the best way to find breast cancer early. They can find breast lumps when they are too small for a woman or her doctor to feel.
 
Mammograms can not find all problems. So, every woman should work with her doctor to check her breasts. Call your doctor or clinic if you notice any change in your breasts like:
  • a lump
  • thickening
  • liquid leaking from the nipple or changes in how the nipple looks
 

How is a mammogram done?

  •  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.
 
How do I get my results?
 
You and your health care provider should get a written report of the results within 30 days after your mammogram.
 
  • Call if you don’t get your results. Don’t assume that everything is normal.
  • You have the right to get the original mammogram x-ray pictures.
 
 
What does the FDA do?
 
The FDA certifies the places that give mammograms in the U.S.  It’s a law called the Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA).
 
The FDA inspects the facilities and the people who work there.
 
 
How do I know if my place is certified?
 
The FDA keeps a list of all certified places where you can get a mammogram like a:
 
  • Doctor’s Office
  • Clinic
  • Hospital
  • X-ray Center
  • Mobile Van
 
To find a certified site near you, go to the FDA website and put in your zip code:
 
 
You should also look for the FDA MQSA Certificate at your facility.
 
 
 
What is a digital mammogram?
 
Digital mammograms are pictures of the breast that are viewed on a computer. Regular mammograms are viewed on x-ray film.
 
 
What else should I know before I get a mammogram?
 
  • Do not wear deodorant, perfume, lotion or powder under your arm or on your breasts on the day of your exam. It might show up on the x-ray.
  • Tell the clinic if you have breast implants when you make your appointment. They may need to take more pictures than a regular mammogram.
  • Tell the clinic if you have physical disabilities that may make it hard for you to sit up, lift your arms or dress yourself.
  • Talk with the staff about how they will handle issues of modesty that you may have due to your religion.

 

 

To learn more:

 

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)                         
www.fda.gov/womens                                                                              
 
 
National Cancer Institute (NCI)

www.cancer.gov

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