The pressure of the plates of the mammogram machine on the breasts may be uncomfortable or even painful. It is critical to schedule your mammogram when your breasts are not tender. This is usually one week after your menstrual period in premenopausal women. Consider the fact that each X-ray takes only a few seconds and could save your life.

Most doctors recommend starting mammograms at the age of 40 and continuing them every year. If you are considered high-risk, you may need to begin sooner.

A mammogram is performed by compressing the breasts between two firm surfaces in order to evenly spread the breast tissue for a better, higher-quality image. A radiologist then reads the image. They examine the image to see if anything has changed from previous mammograms or if any new abnormalities have appeared.

Mammogram may take less than 30-45 minutes from the moment you arrive to the time you leave.

High-quality screening mammograms are the best tool available to detect breast cancer before lumps can be felt, or symptoms appear. If your doctor detects and treats breast cancer early, when it is small and hasn't spread, you have a better chance of surviving. Regular screening may aid in the earlier detection of cancer.

3D mammography, or breast tomosynthesis, is a breakthrough technology in breast imaging that allows a clearer, more accurate view of the breast (as opposed to the traditional 2D mammogram). It allows the breast radiologist to see through the different layers of tissue in the breast. This improves breast cancer detection.

Digital mammograms utilize small and safe dosage of radiation to produce a clear and detailed image. The chances of developing cancer from a mammogram is extremely low. As a result, mammograms are now safer than ever.

Annual screening mammograms are performed to look for signs of abnormality. Diagnostic mammograms are used to assess a specific area of concern and are reviewed by the radiologist immediately.

Women who began menstrual period before the age of 12, or had first child at the age of 30 or older, or have no biological children, or began menopause after the age of 55 are at a higher risk. This means that research has shown that a woman's number of menstrual cycles over time influences risk.

Women who have breast implants should continue to have regular mammograms. Many women are concerned that a mammogram will rupture their breast implants, but they should inform the technician about their breast implants. There are techniques for moving implants away from breast tissue to obtain clearer images, but in general, breast implants make reading of mammogram results more difficult.