The moment your doctor mentions a mammogram, your mind might start to race. It’s a word that can carry a lot of weight. Between scheduling the appointment and the day finally arriving, a storm of “what ifs” can swirl inside your head. When you’re already juggling all those thoughts, not knowing the actual process can make the whole experience feel that much more overwhelming.
Let’s lift some of that uncertainty. We can walk through it together, step by step, so you can go into your first mammogram feeling prepared and a lot more at ease.
Knowing What to Expect Means Knowing What It Is
A mammogram is simply a low-dose X-ray picture of your breast. It’s a tool that gives doctors a clear view of the inner breast tissue. This detailed image allows them to look for any changes that you or a doctor might not be able to feel during a physical exam.
The whole point of this screening is to find things early. Spotting potential signs of breast cancer when they are incredibly small gives you the best advantage. Early detection of any disease often leads to more straightforward and effective therapy. Think of it as a powerful, proactive step in your personal health journey, giving you information and control. This research-backed screening is a crucial component of your overall wellness.
Preparing for Your Appointment
On the day of your mammogram, it’s best to skip using deodorant, antiperspirant, lotions or powders from the waist up. Some of these products contain tiny metallic particles that can appear on the X-ray as white spots. This could cause confusion when the images are read and lead to unnecessary worry.
You will want to dress in a comfortable, two-piece outfit, like a top with pants or a skirt. This way, you’ll only need to undress from the waist up. The facility will provide a soft gown or wrap for you to wear during the mammogram, making the process smoother for you as a patient.
The Step-by-Step of the Mammography Process
When you’re called back, a technologist will take you to a private room and guide you through everything. You’ll stand in front of the mammography machine, and the technologist will position one of your breasts on a platform. A clear plastic plate will then come down and press firmly on your breast for just a few seconds.
This compression part can be a bit uncomfortable, but it’s very quick. This step is so important because it spreads out the breast tissue. This creates a much clearer picture and lets the machine use the lowest possible radiation dose. They will repeat this for a couple of different angles for each breast. The entire screening appointment is usually over in about 20 minutes.
After Screening: What’s Next?
Once the images are complete, you can get dressed and go about your day. Your work is done. A radiologist, a doctor who is an expert at reading X-rays, will carefully review your images and examine the tissue for any area that needs attention. This detailed look is a key part of your risk assessment.
You will typically receive your results within a few weeks. For most people, the results of their breast cancer screening come back normal. Sometimes, a patient is asked to return for a follow-up appointment. Being called back doesn’t mean something is wrong. It often means the first image wasn’t clear enough or the radiologist wants a closer look at a particular spot.
Sometimes, this can be due to factors like those we mentioned before – wearing deodorant, powders, lotions, etc. – that affect the results. It’s just part of the process of being thorough.
Your Space for Calm and Care at Sadler Health Center
Your health journey should feel supportive, not stressful. At Sadler Health Center, we want every woman to feel cared for, informed and confident in her health decisions.
While Sadler does not perform mammograms on-site, our providers are here to guide you through the process – from discussing when to schedule a screening to connecting you with trusted partners for your mammogram. We provide the information and referrals you need, in a space where your comfort comes first.
A mammogram is just one piece of your overall health. We’re here for your yearly check-ups, other important screenings and the everyday care that helps you stay well. Your well-being is at the center of everything we do – because your health matters to us.
Schedule Your Check-Up Today
Your health deserves attention, care and time – and we’re here to make it simple. Contact Sadler Health Center to schedule your annual visit or talk with our team about women’s health services and referrals. Together, we’ll help you stay on top of your health with confidence and peace of mind.
To become a new patient or schedule your appointment, follow these steps:
- New patients: Click here to fill out patient information and book an appointment.
- Existing patients: Use our online scheduling tool, call 717-218-6670 or text 717-912-8953 for an appointment.