Mammography Tests- A Complete Guide

A Mammogram or Mammography test is an X-ray picture of the breast. It is used to check for early signs of breast cancer in women. It can also detect any lump, tumours, or other tissue abnormalities such as pain or nipple discharge. The procedure allows the detection of benign tumours and cysts. Screening mammography examines changes in the breast when you do not have any symptoms. Women face insufferable breast problems. Here at Star Imaging and Path Lab, we provide the best facility. Tests are performed under the strict observation of an experienced radiologist. Just look around your neighbourhood for our centre.

Reasons why doctors call for a mammogram?

• Mammography is a diagnostic tool as well as a screening tool. Women older than 30 years may develop symptoms like a palpable lump, breast skin thickening, discharge from the nipple, erosive sore of the nipple, or breast pain.

• A mammogram is used to evaluate breast pain when physical examination and history are inconclusive. Physical examination of women with breasts that are dense or very large becomes difficult.

• If there is any Lump or mass formed in the breast. 

• Women with a risk for breast cancer or a history of breast cancer.

• Any formation of Cysts.

• Any Cancerous growth.

• Malignant tumours, if any.

• Digital mammography technology is used for women with dense breast tissue and premenopausal or perimenopausal women. 

Types of Mammography Test

1. A screening mammogram: It is an X-ray of the breast used to detect changes when a woman shows no symptoms of breast cancer. Two X-rays are typically taken of each breast. This type of test can be done to detect a tumour that cannot be felt.

2. A diagnostic mammogram: Diagnosing unexpected breast changes such as a lump or pain, as well as a change in breast size and form are the primary goals of diagnostic mammograms.

How painful is a mammogram?

Most women feel some discomfort during the process. The pressure against the breasts from the testing equipment can cause pain or discomfort. A little soreness or tenderness is felt for the rest of the day. This pressure part of the process lasts for a few minutes. Mammograms are completely safe. Exposure to a very small amount of radiation during mammography, but the risk is extremely low. So don’t be scared before looking for a ‘mammography test near me’!

Risks involved with mammography:

• The accuracy of the mammography depends on multiple conditions, like the skill of the radiologist or the technique used. It may sometimes give false-negative results, which may happen due to the factors like age and density of the breast.

• The radiation dose is low, but there is a risk of exposure to radiation-based hazards.

• It is sometimes difficult to detect cancerous growth in older women compared to younger women because of dense and fatty breast tissues.

• 10% of the women undergoing mammography might require additional test procedures like biopsy, ultrasound or MRI. 

• Not all cancers are detected. If the cancerous growth is too small or in an area which is difficult to see through a mammogram, e.g. armpits, a physical diagnosis is performed.

Some Preparations Needed 

• Pregnant ladies should inform the doctor.

• Do not apply any deodorant, body powders, body lotions, perfumes, or creams on underarms or breasts.

• Avoid going for the mammogram test before and during the menstrual cycle. Get the test done after the completion of the menstrual period.

• Inform the doctor if you are taking any medicines. In case of no risk, the medication can be continued normally.

• Remove all the jewellery before the test.

• A hospital gown needs to be worn.

• If the woman feels discomfort or pain, inform the doctor, and he may advise her to take a painkiller.

Is mammography done on an empty stomach?

No need for fasting before a mammogram. You can take normal food and drink. But some restrictions exist, such as not taking coffee, tea or caffeinated soft drinks during the week before a mammogram. Chocolate should be avoided, too, because it also contains caffeine.

Star Imaging and Path Lab offers all types of tests, including mammography. We follow the Global Standard method for the diagnosis of breast cancer. The mammogram reports are available after one day. We deliver the reports to our doorsteps. So if you are looking for a ‘mammogram near me’, we are the best choice!