Mammagram

[BRUMI1968]

Hi all! I've had some pain in one breast and had it checked out today. The doc didn't think it was anything, but is having me do a mammogram anyhow (I'm 39 - so probably just an age/safety thing). I'm having it on Wednesday morning.

Any tips? Any descriptions of the process?

[Rosebud710]

First, make sure you are in the middle of your cycle and not right before your period. Your breasts are too swollen and tender. If that's the case, you might want to reschedule it until after your period. Trust me, it'll make a difference during the procedure.

I'm not going to sugar coat it, it's not the most comfortable procedure in the world. But it goes fast and before you know it, you're leaving the facility. The nurses there are extremely nice - I've had several and never had a grumpy-guss yet. They will walk you through the procedure and tell you what to do.

Good luck!

[CarlaB]

The anticipation is worse than the procedure itself .... you just get smashed a little.

[Darn210]

They will have you remove your deoderant to keep the chemicals off of the equipment - anticipate some cold wipes . My lab provides some sort of generic spray-on deoderant if you want it - I take my own in my purse.

I think the bitewing x-rays in the dentist's office (when the corner of the film catches you in the roof of the mouth) is a worse experience.

[Phyllis28]

I call this my annual squishing. The machine compresses your breast. When I have mine done there are usually a total of four compressions. Each breast is compressed in two different positons. It is not comfortable but the compression does not last very long.

[BRUMI1968]

thanks all!

[ravenwoodglass]

I know your having this for breast pain so make sure you speak up loudly if it hurts a lot. They can do an ultrasound if they should have problems with the mammo. Usually the test is a bit uncomfortable but not really that bad, as others have said.

[elye]

If you've gone through childbirth, it's a breezy walk through the park (...but what isn't?)

[jerseyangel]

I've had many mammograms (I'm ancient )

It's a bit uncomfortable (I would not call it painful at all)--certainly nothing to be afraid of. It goes by quickly and the greatest pressure is over in a matter of a few seconds.

I've always found the techs to be very kind and I'm sure they'll walk you through the whole thing. Let them know why you're there, and about any fears you have about the procedure itself. Believe me, it's going to be fine