Screening Mammography

Screening mammography is a low-dose X-ray examination of the breasts. It can often detect changes in the breasts that are too small to be detected by manual exam. A comprehensive breast cancer risk assessment is performed on every woman who receives a screening mammogram at the Center for Breast Health. Our mammography services are fully accredited by the American College of Radiology.  Delnor offers top quality care with all digital mammography.

Why Should I Have a Mammogram?

It is recommended by the American Cancer Society that women age 40 and older should have a mammogram once every year.

Regular mammograms, along with monthly self-breast examinations and yearly physician examinations, are the best protection against breast cancer. Early detection of breast disease usually means a better prognosis and less invasive treatments. A mammogram can help you and your doctor learn what is normal for your breasts and what may be signs of a potential problem.

In addition to the radiologist’s reading, every mammogram performed at the Center is reviewed by the R2 Image Checker Computer Aided Detection (CAD) System. This system acts as a second pair of eyes for the radiologist in reviewing your mammogram, and potentially can help to detect up to 20% more breast cancers at an earlier stage.

How Do I Prepare for a Mammogram?

On the day of your mammogram, please do not use deodorant, powder, perfume, or lotion under your arms or near your breast area. These products may show up on your mammogram images. For your convenience, you will be provided with deodorant wipes after your examination.

For your comfort, wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to remove your top.  Bring the name, address, phone number and fax number of your doctor and any other health care providers that you would like to receive a copy of your report.

Bring your doctor’s order with you to your appointment and arrive a few minutes early.

If you have had previous mammograms, breast biopsies, or other breast treatments at any other facility, please bring a list of the facilities, along with the addresses and dates the exams were completed. Also, to eliminate delay in the interpretation of your new films, please bring your previous exam results and/or X-rays with you. This will allow our radiologists to compare your new results with any previous examinations to ensure the most complete and accurate study possible.

What Happens When I Have Mammogram Performed?

Having a mammogram may seem frightening. However, by knowing what to expect you can reduce your anxiety level. Our team of caring and compassionate breast care specialists will help guide you through your examination and any additional studies that may be needed.

When you have a mammogram, you will stand in front of a special X-ray machine. This machine is dedicated to mammography only. The mammographer will position each breast on a platform that holds the X-ray film. The platform will be raised or lowered to match your height. The mammographer will then gradually compress your breast between the platform and a specially designed clear plastic paddle for a very short time. Most women experience only minimal discomfort. It is best to relax as much as possible. If the compression is too painful, you need to inform the mammographer.

If there is an area of concern with your results, the radiologist or mammographer may examine your breasts, and additional views or an ultrasound may be requested. This does not mean that you have something wrong with your breasts. It simply means additional information is needed for the most accurate results. The additional views and ultrasound may be done on the same day as your mammogram, and there usually is no discomfort associated with the ultrasound.

Schedule Your Appointment

The Center for Breast Health is located at 351 Delnor Drive, Suite 201, on the hospital campus.  To schedule a tour, call (630) 208-4153. To schedule an appointment, call (630) 762-6400.