Digital Mammography

Digital mammography is the most up-to-date, technologically advanced mammography equipment for imaging the breast. It can reveal tumors too small to be felt and can show other changes in the breast that doctors believe may suggest cancer.

Preparing for a Mammogram

On the day of the exam, you may bathe or shower as usual. However, please do not use deodorants, powder or perfume on the breasts or underarm area. These products may actually appear on the mammogram, reducing the accuracy of the exam.

Some women find that avoiding caffeine one week prior to the mammogram helps relieve tenderness felt during a mammogram.

Women who experience premenstrual breast tenderness should try to schedule their exam for the week after their menstrual cycle is completed.

Because you will be asked to change into a gown, you may prefer wearing a two-piece outfit.

Medical History

At the time of the examination, the technologist will ask you for your personal history relating to breast disease. This information and the results of the physical exam will be used by the radiologist (a physician specially trained to read X-rays, including mammograms) when interpreting the mammography films.

Exam Results

Following your examination, the mammography films will be read by a radiologist. If films from a prior mammogram are available, a comparison will be made in order to detect any changes in the breast. The radiologist's report will be sent to your physician.