Are You Prepared for Your Mammography Screening?
If you have not had a mammography screening within the past year, you are likely overdue for one. Women 40 years and older should have a mammography screening every year. These screenings are vital in detecting breast cancer. Without a mammography screening, breast cancer could go undetected, leaving the cancer to grow and worsen. There are many reasons why you should take part in these yearly screenings, but it is also important you know how to prepare for your mammography screening.
How to Prepare:
Scheduling
The first step in preparing for a mammography screening is contacting a physician to schedule an appointment. This appointment should ideally be scheduled within 2 weeks of your last menstrual period, this is to help prevent breast soreness after the appointment. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment within the Guilford, Madison, and Clinton, CT area contact us today.
When scheduling a mammography screening, it is helpful if you alert your physician if:
- You have had previous mammography screenings at other offices. It is helpful to send these records to us before your appointment. Comparing films from previous exams to films from more recent exams helps us see any changes that have occurred in your breast tissue.
- You have breast implants. Alerting us prior to the appointment that you have breast implants helps ensure we schedule enough time for your appointment.
- You have any other questions or concerns. Please feel free to reach out if you have any additional questions or concerns about your breasts or the procedure.
What to Bring
When arriving to your appointment, it is best if you wear a two-piece outfit. For example, a blouse and pants. This way you do not need to fully undress when putting on the hospital gown, and you can leave your pants on.
What Not to Wear
Before your appointment, make sure not to have any powder, deodorant, perfume, or lotion on the area surrounding your breasts and arms. Jewelry, especially around the neck, should also be removed before the procedure is performed.
Follow up: How Long do Results Take?
At Madison Radiology, our radiologist usually has a report within 24 hours. Your physician can then share these results with you. About a week after your appointment, you will receive a summary of your results. Any questions you have about mammography results can be answered by your referring physician.
We're proud to offer mammography screening services to residents across Clinton, Old Saybrook, Madison, CT, and the surrounding communities. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a mammography screening!