Mammography
Mammography Preparation - click for PDF
Overview
Mammography is an effective procedure for detecting many types of breast disease, particularly breast cancer. It involves taking special x-ray pictures of your breast, called a mammogram.
Common Reasons for a Mammogram
The Canadian Cancer Society and the Ontario Breast Screening Program recommend that all women, between the ages of 40 and 74, have a mammogram every one to two years. Mammography can also be performed on men or younger women that have specific breast problems and women with a strong family history of breast cancer.
Who should not have a Mammogram?
Pregnant women should not have a mammogram.
How do I prepare for a Mammogram?
Avoid the use of any deodorant, powders, creams or ointments on the day of your exam, as they may contain ingredients that interfere with the quality of the mammogram.
It's best to wear a two-piece outfit, such as a blouse and skirt or slacks, as you will be asked to undress from the waist up.
If you routinely experience breast tenderness prior to your period, schedule your mammogram for the middle of your cycle. You may also wish to take a painkiller such as Aspirin or Tylenol an hour before your appointment.
Who performs the examination?
Our staff of female technologists who have special training in breast imaging. Our staff is specially trained to help you relax and answer your questions.
What happens during the examination?
After registering with the receptionist you will be given a gown and asked to remove your clothing from the waist up. You will be taken into the mammography room where the technologist will position your breast on the machine. In order to achieve the clearest picture, the technologist must compress your breast. This involves easing your breast tissue away from the chest wall and compressing it to a uniform thickness.
The procedure takes only a few seconds for each breast. Any tightness you feel usually disappears immediately. The compression does not harm the breast tissue.
After the x-rays are taken the technologist will examine them to make sure she has a good picture. If any are not clear, or if there are questionable abnormalities, she may take extra films. This may be done during the same visit, or you may be called back for another visit. Sometimes we use breast ultrasound, as well, to clarify the situation.
What are the risks of the procedure?
All x-rays involve receiving a controlled amount of radiation.
Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
The results are interpreted by one of our radiologists (a doctor who specializes in reading x-ray and other images and doing procedures requiring imaging). The results are sent to the doctor who ordered the Mammogram by courier or fax. Arrangements to discuss the results of the mammogram can be made with the doctor that ordered the exam.
How do I book an appointment at London X-Ray Associates?
Call the Scheduling office at 519-672-7900.
Are childcare (baby sitting) services available while I have my exam?
No childcare services are available. Please prearrange the following:
Adult supervision in the waiting room must be provided at all times for children while you, the caregiver, are having your exam completed. London X-Ray Associates staff will not be able to provide any childcare needs. We ask that all children be supervised by an adult, other than the patient, while at London X-Ray Associates.
Thank you.