Mammograms
Setting the Record Straight
Mammograms remain the gold standard for detecting breast cancer, but confusion and misconceptions can keep women from scheduling this important screening.
In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, Williamson Health’s Rupa Grummon, AGNP, from the Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center, is setting the record straight on common myths, screening best practices and what to expect if it’s your first mammogram.
Common Misconceptions
“We sometimes hear of women who delay getting a mammogram because they don’t have a family history of the disease or believe the radiation used in mammograms isn’t worth the risk,” Grummon said. “But mammograms allow us to catch breast cancer early when it’s most treatable.”
Some of the most common misconceptions include:
No family history means little to no risk: While a family history can increase your risk, many women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease. Other risk factors include age, genetics, race and ethnicity, breast density and more.
No symptoms mean no risk: “Breast cancer can develop without many symptoms,” Grummon said. “By the time a lump is detectable in a self-exam, it may have been growing for years.”
Mammogram radiation is dangerous: Mammograms use extremely low levels of radiation — similar to the amount of radiation a person would receive during one to two months of everyday life.
Dense breast tissue makes mammograms useless: Dense tissue can make mammograms more difficult to interpret, but that makes routine screening even more important. Women with dense breasts may also need additional imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI.
Screening Best Practices
“Most women should begin yearly screenings at age 40, though those at higher risk may need to begin earlier,” Grummon said. “Bottom line, if you’re 40 or older and haven’t had a mammogram, it’s time to schedule one.”
Women at high risk may need earlier and more intensive screening. Risk factors can include a family history of breast or ovarian cancer — particularly in first- or second-degree relatives — known breast cancer genes, dense breast tissue or radiation therapy to the chest before age 30.
While providers no longer typically emphasize a monthly self-exam on a specific day, Grummon encourages women to know how their breasts normally look and feel. Changes such as lumps, skin dimpling, redness, texture changes, nipple discharge or nipple inversion should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
What to Expect at Your First Mammogram
“Getting your first mammogram can be a little nerve-wracking because you’ve never done it before,” Grummon said. “Mammograms involve a little pressure and are over quickly.”
To prepare:
Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to remove clothing above the waist. A technician will provide a wrap or gown.
Avoid deodorant, antiperspirant, powders, lotions and perfumes under your arms or on your breasts.
Expect some pressure, but not significant pain. Each breast is compressed for about 10-15 seconds to obtain a high-quality image, with the process repeated in several positions. If it becomes painful, tell the technician so they can adjust the positioning or compression.
Ask questions about your results. Your provider will share your results within a few days and arrange additional imaging if needed. If you don’t understand something or have concerns, ask for clarification.
Williamson Health’s Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center offers award-winning breast cancer care from diagnosis to remission - focusing on treatment, empowerment and survivorship. Nationally recognized for its exceptional facilities and level of care, the Williamson Health Turner-Dugas Breast Health Center offers state-of-the-art technology, exceptional expertise and compassionate care. Learn more at williamsonhealth.org/breast-health.
