Routine Mammograms: A Key to Detecting Breast Cancer

Breast cancer doesn’t always come with warning signs. But when it is found early — before it has a chance to spread — the five-year relative survival rate is 99%. 

That’s why getting routine mammograms is so important: they are one of the most effective tools for catching breast cancer early, often before it can be felt during a physical exam.

Keep reading to learn more about what mammograms involve and when to start screening.

Understanding Mammograms

A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray that takes images of breast tissue for suspicious areas or lumps. It uses a small amount of radiation, but the benefits of early detection far outweigh the minimal risk involved.

There are two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic.  

• Screening is done as a preventive measure when you have no signs of breast cancer.
• Diagnostic is performed if initial screening mammogram was abnormal, if you have a high risk of breast cancer, or have symptoms of breast cancer.

When to Start Getting Mammograms

Most women should get routine mammograms every two years, beginning at age 40. Your provider may recommend screening earlier or more frequently if you have dense breasts, a personal history or family history of breast cancer, or inherited genetic mutations. Talk with your healthcare team to determine the right screening schedule for you.

There are also a few special situations that may affect how or when you get a mammogram. If you fall into any of the categories below, your provider may recommend a different approach:

• If you have had breast cancer in the past, whether you need to keep getting mammograms might depend on the type of surgery you had (mastectomy, double mastectomy, lumpectomy).
• If you have breast implants, you can and should still get mammograms as recommended. You might need to have extra pictures taken so the doctor can see as much breast tissue as possible. Always tell your provider ahead of time that you have implants so they can prepare accordingly.
• If you are pregnant, mammograms are generally avoided unless there are symptoms of breast cancer. If you are breastfeeding, mammograms are still possible, but breast tissue may appear denser. Pumping or nursing before an appointment may help.

What to Expect at a Mammogram

Let’s face it, mammograms have a reputation of being uncomfortable. It helps to know what to expect before you go to ease your anxiety. Here are some tips to help you prepare: 

• Schedule your mammogram when your breasts are less tender or swollen, typically one to two weeks after your period starts. This can help limit the discomfort.
• Don’t apply deodorant or lotion on your underarms or breasts before your appointment. These may show up as white spots on your x-ray.
• Follow list of recommendations from your provider, like not applying deodorant, perfume, or other products to your breast or underarm area.
• Wear comfortable clothes; you’ll only have to remove your top and bra, so consider wearing a skirt or pants instead of a dress.

The whole procedure takes about 20 minutes, with the actual compression lasting only 10-15 seconds for each image. You might feel some discomfort, but if you are in pain, let the technician know.  

What Mammograms Show

Mammograms are important screening tools, but they do have limitations. They can sometimes miss cancer or show abnormalities that are not cancer, especially if you have dense breasts.

False negatives are possible. If you have symptoms of breast cancer but your mammogram didn’t detect any abnormalities, it is important to advocate for yourself and seek further testing. While false negatives are rare, they can occur in about 1 in 8 breast cancer cases.

Alongside false negatives, false positives are also a consideration. These are more common in those who are younger, have dense breasts, have had biopsies, have a family history of breast cancer, or are taking estrogen. If something unusual shows up on a mammogram, further tests may be needed, such as a diagnostic mammogram, ultrasound, MRI, or biopsy. Your healthcare provider will guide you through the next steps based on your individual results.  

Mammogram Myths

Even though mammograms are beneficial to detecting cancer early, many women skip their mammograms due to fears or myths. Let’s clear a few myths up:

“Mammograms hurt”  

Mammograms may be uncomfortable, but they shouldn’t be painful. A few minutes of pressure is worth the peace of mind.

“I feel fine, so I don’t need one”

Even if you feel fine, you should still attend your mammogram. By the time symptoms show up, breast cancer could be more advanced and harder to treat.

“I’m too young to get screened”

40 may feel “too young” to need a mammogram. However, breast cancer can occur at any age. Don't skip your screenings based on assumptions.  

“They’re too expensive”

Mammograms are covered by most insurance plans. The Compass Rose Health Plan covers routine annual mammograms at 100% when seeing a network provider.

If you have been putting off your mammogram, now is the time to schedule your next visit. Mammograms are powerful tools in protecting your health and providing peace of mind. Remember: A 20-minute screening could save your life. Talk to your provider about your risk factors and encourage your loved ones to get their screenings and attend their annual checkups.