When Should I Start Getting Mammograms?
For women with an average risk of breast cancer, your provider will recommend that you begin scheduling mammograms at age 40 and get one every 1-2 years until age 50. At age 50, you will need to get an annual mammogram. Your breast cancer risk increases until age 75 and then begins to decline.
If you have additional risk factors that make you more likely to develop breast cancer, your provider will help you determine when it is right to start getting mammograms. This can depend on your health history, family history, and age.
Those who are considered to have an elevated risk for breast cancer begin screenings at a younger age. This helps your provider catch signs of breast cancer as early as possible. You may be considered at high risk for breast cancer if:
- You have a personal or family history of breast or other kinds of cancer.
- You have the BRCA1 and BRCA2 (genes that control cell growth) mutations
- You have had exposure to chest radiation at a young age
If you have questions about your breast cancer risk factors, your provider can discuss them with you and help you understand your personal risk level.
Why Are Mammograms Important?
There are two important reasons to get a mammogram:
- Routinely screen for breast cancer
- Find a diagnosis for symptoms you’re experiencing
Routine screening is a prevention method that allows your provider to catch the signs of breast cancer early. Catching cancer early can help increase the likelihood of survival.
If you’re experiencing pain in your breasts or noticed lumps and skin changes to your breasts, a mammogram can help determine the cause. A diagnostic mammogram can pinpoint areas of concern that need to be monitored or biopsied.
What Happens During a Mammogram?
On the day of your appointment, please do not wear any powders, lotions, or deodorants, as they can make the mammogram difficult to read. The technician will ask you to remove any clothes you wear from the waist up and put on a medical gown. You may have to answer some questions about the symptoms you’ve noticed, such as a lump or skin change in your breast. If you have questions, the technician will take the time to answer them and do their best to keep you comfortable.
To complete the screening, you will be positioned in front of the mammogram machine. One of your breasts will be placed on the support plate, while another plate will hold your breast in place and compress it. You may experience some discomfort during this process. Your breast will be scanned from the side and above, and then the technician will repeat this process with the other breast.
When the mammogram is complete, you can return to daily activities. Your provider will contact you to discuss your results.
Schedule Your Next Mammogram at Florida Woman Care
If the time for your next mammogram is approaching or you would like to learn more about your breast cancer screening options, speak with your provider at Florida Woman Care. We will walk you through the screening process and help you learn more about the preventative measures you can take to screen for breast cancer. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a mammogram today.