Time For Your Mammogram: What You Need to Know

Mammograms are an effective technology used with detecting breast tumors and cancer. Whether you’re going for your first mammogram or your annual screening, Amy Long MD, a gynecologist with Group Health – Anderson, provides some information on how to best prepare for your visit and when to expect results. 

What Should I Wear?

You will be asked to undress from the waist up, so you should wear a two-piece outfit. A gown will be provided for you to wear. No deodorant, perfume, or powder should be used under your arms on the day of your mammogram.

How Long is the Test and How Will it Feel?

The process usually takes around ten minutes, but each compression only lasts only a few seconds. There are typically two compressions per breast. “The mammogram tech will individualize the compression to get the breast tissue spread to about the tautness of the skin on your extended thumb,” Dr. Long explains. “This can be uncomfortable but only lasts a few seconds.” The level of discomfort varies person to person and may depend on the combination of tissue density, breast size, and breast sensitivity.

Why Are Mammograms Recommended? 

Mammography is a reliable test for screening women to detect early breast cancer. The earlier breast cancer is detected, the higher the likelihood it will be cured.

TriHealth follows the American College of Radiology recommending annual screening mammograms beginning at age 40. For women at a higher risk of breast cancer, annual screening can begin at age 30.

If you have a close family history of breast cancer, please consult your physician to evaluate your lifetime risk or contact our TriHealth High-Risk Breast Care Navigator at 513 865 5919.

When Will I Know My Results?

If your imaging results are normal, MyChart users will be notified via email that test results are available. If you don’t access your MyChart results or you do not have a MyChart account, you will be notified via mail within the next 30 days.

If your imaging results are abnormal, you will be personally contacted by a member of our breast care team via phone within 24-48 hours to schedule further imaging or assessment.

To create a new MyChart account or to sign-in to an existing account, visit www.TriHealth.com/MyChart