Mammograms
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that produces an image of the breast. It is an essential component of ensuring good breast health and helps to detect breast cancer. Annual mammograms are recommended for most women starting at age 40 and continuing as long as a woman is healthy.
Lake Health offers digital mammography services at several convenient sites, accredited by the American College of Radiology and with certificates of operation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Lake Health has a Breast Center of Excellence accredited by both the NAPBC, National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers, and by the ACR, American College of Radiology. Some sites are open evenings and Saturdays.
In addition to digital mammography, 3D tomosynthesis mammography is offered at TriPoint Medical Center, West Medical Center, Mentor Campus and Perrico Health Campus. This is the best mammogram available. It is a revolutionary screening and diagnostic breast imaging tool to improve the early detection of breast cancer in patients with dense and non-dense breast tissue. 3D tomography can decrease the need for follow-up exams and decrease patient anxiety. Call your insurance company to see if 3D tomosynthesis is covered.
A mammogram is performed by appointment only.
Preparing for Your Mammogram
- Scheduling your mammogram at the end of your menstrual period can help with discomfort. This timing is when breasts are least filled with fluid and are less tender.
- If you’ve had a mammogram that was very painful, try cutting out caffeine for several days prior to your mammogram. You may also want to take ibuprofen or Motrin several days prior to the exam if you have no restrictions on taking these drugs. Talk to your technologist before the exam to tell us about any breast symptoms or problems you’ve had with previous mammograms.
- On the day of your mammogram, don’t wear any deodorant, body powders or perfume. Bring your deodorant in your purse and apply it after the exam.
- It is helpful to wear comfortable clothing, such as a skirt or pants that will allow you to undress from the waist up.
- The procedure will take approximately 30 minutes.
- Tell your physician or an X-ray technologist if you are or may be pregnant.
- Please register 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
- Please bring the physician order to your appointment.
- When scheduling your mammogram, you’ll be asked if you have had other mammograms and where they were performed. Please bring records of any prior mammograms not performed at Lake Health on the day of your exam. Having records of previous mammograms can help the radiologist track any changes to your breasts.