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Preparing for your mammogram
If
you have a written order from your doctor, please bring it
with you. A written order is required for a Diagnostic Mammogram,
also called a problem-solving or consultative mammography.
A Diagnostic Mammogram is a x-ray examination used to evaluate
a woman or man with:
- Signs or symptoms of breast disease.
- A personal
history of breast cancer.
- A personal history of biopsy-proven
benign breast disease.
Schedule your mammogram when your
breasts will be least tender. During mammography, the breast
is pressed between two clear
plastic plates for a few seconds. This gives a clear picture
with the least amount of x-rays. But it may be uncomfortable,
and a few women experience pain.
If you have sensitive breasts,
try having your mammogram at a time of month when your breasts
will be least tender.
Try
to avoid the week right before your period. This will help
lessen discomfort. If you are worried about discomfort you
may want to take a mild over-the-counter pain reliever about
an hour before the mammogram.
Your prior mammogram films and
reports are needed for comparison. If your prior mammogram
was not performed at The Breast Center
of Northwest Arkansas, you will need to make arrangements
to obtain your films and reports. Your mammography films
are important
for comparison to identify any changes in your breast tissue.
If your prior films are not available at the time your mammogram
is performed the interpretation of your films may be delayed
or you may be required to return for additional tests.
We
strongly recommend, if possible, that you personally pick
up your films/reports from the facility where your last mammogram
was performed. If this is not possible please call the facility
as soon as possible and arrange to have your films/reports
mailed directly to The Breast Center.
Please allow several
weeks before you schedule your appointment to be certain
that we receive your prior films before your visit. Please
inform
the facility that you wish to have your original films loaned
or permanently transferred to The Breast Center of Northwest
Arkansas.
On the day of your mammogram:
- Wear a two-piece outfit so you have to remove
only your top.
- Do not use deodorant, talcum powder, or lotion
under your arms or your breasts. These products can show
up on the x-ray.
- Bring the name, address, and phone number
of your doctor or other health care provider.
- Bring your
insurance information.
- Bring a list of the places and dates
of mammograms, biopsies, or other breast treatment that
you had.
- If you may have trouble hearing or understanding
instructions or need assistance, please consider bringing
a friend with
you.
- Download and fill out the forms you will
need for your appointment ahead of time - Optional
If you have not had a recent clinical breast
examination performed by your personal doctor, please schedule
an
appointment. By
having a mammogram, you have taken an important step
to promote your good health.
Your doctor or other healthcare
provider should examine your breasts as part of your regular
physical examination. Monthly
breast self-examination is also important. See breast care
recommendations |
