What to Expect During a Mammogram

Before Your Appointment

A little preparation can make your mammogram experience smoother and more comfortable:

Scheduling Tips

Timing matters: If you menstruate, schedule your mammogram for 1-2 weeks after your period when breasts are typically less tender
First-timers: Allow extra time (45-60 minutes) for paperwork and questions
New facility? Request your prior mammogram images be sent ahead of time for comparison

The Day Before

Gather any prior mammogram records if you have them
Write down questions you want to ask
Confirm your appointment time and facility location

The Morning Of

Skip deodorant, antiperspirant, powder, and lotion on your chest, underarms, and breasts (they can appear as white spots on images)
Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to undress from the waist up
Remove necklaces and leave jewelry at home
Consider taking over-the-counter pain medication (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) 30-60 minutes before if you're worried about discomfort

💡 Forgot and wore deodorant?

Don't worry—most facilities have wipes to remove it. Just let your technologist know.

During the Exam

Here's what happens from the moment you arrive:

Check in and change — You'll complete brief paperwork, then undress from the waist up in a private changing area. A gown or cape will be provided.
Meet your technologist — A trained mammography technologist (usually female) will guide you through the process and answer questions.
Positioning — You'll stand in front of the mammography machine. The technologist will place your breast on a flat platform.
Compression — A clear plastic paddle presses down on your breast to spread the tissue evenly. This may be uncomfortable but only lasts 10-15 seconds per image.
Hold still — You'll be asked to hold your breath briefly while the X-ray is taken.
Repeat — The process is repeated for different views (typically from above and from the side) and then for the other breast.
Review — The technologist checks that the images are clear. Occasionally, additional views are needed.

Total time: The entire appointment typically takes 20-30 minutes. The actual imaging takes only about 10 minutes.

⚠️ About the Compression

Breast compression is necessary for clear images and to reduce radiation dose, but it can be uncomfortable. If the pressure is unbearable, tell your technologist—they can adjust. Remember: it only lasts a few seconds per image.

After the Exam

Immediately After

You can get dressed and resume all normal activities right away
Some women experience mild breast tenderness for a day or two
No restrictions on driving, exercise, or work

Getting Your Results

Results are typically available within 1-2 weeks
You'll receive a written summary by mail or patient portal
Your results will include your breast density category (A through D)
If you don't hear back within 2 weeks, call the facility

If You're Called Back

About 10-12% of women are called back for additional imaging. This is usually for:

Unclear images that need to be retaken
Areas that need closer examination with additional views
Comparison with prior mammograms

Important: A callback does NOT mean you have cancer. Fewer than 10% of callbacks result in a cancer diagnosis. Most are false alarms or benign findings.

📋 Keep Records

Save copies of your mammogram results and know which facility stores your images. If you switch providers, you can request your images be transferred.

Tips for a More Comfortable Experience

Communicate — Tell your technologist about any concerns, prior biopsies, or areas of tenderness
Breathe — Take slow, deep breaths during compression to help you relax
Limit caffeine — Some women find reducing caffeine before their appointment helps with breast tenderness
Bring a friend — If you're anxious, having someone in the waiting room can help
Ask questions — Technologists are happy to explain what they're doing and why