What should you know about preventive mammogram?

Mammography uses X-rays to create images of the breast. During the examination, each breast is positioned and briefly compressed so the system can capture clear views. Screening is intended for people without a current breast complaint; a new lump, nipple discharge, skin change, or persistent focal pain may call for diagnostic assessment instead. A result that needs another view does not by itself establish cancer. Benign tissue, overlapping tissue, or an unclear area can all prompt additional images. Breast cancer can present with a breast lump, but most breast lumps are not cancerous; a clinician interprets imaging alongside examination and history.

Tell the imaging team if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have breast implants, or have had breast surgery. On the day, avoid deodorant, talcum powder, or lotion on the chest and underarms if your centre advises this, because some products can affect the images. Wear clothing that is easy to remove from the waist up. Bring details of previous breast imaging when available so images can be compared. Ask when and how your result will arrive, and keep any recall appointment for extra views or an ultrasound. Depending on your history, the team may discuss 3D Mammography, Breast Tomosynthesis, or a Digital Mammography System.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly for a new breast lump, bloody nipple discharge, a nipple turning inward, a change in breast shape, or skin that becomes dimpled or thickened. Do not wait for routine screening to investigate a symptom. Seek urgent care for severe breast injury, rapidly increasing swelling with fever, or feeling acutely unwell. A Breast Ultrasound or Breast MRI may be recommended for a specific finding or for selected breast tissue and risk patterns.

Ask which screening schedule fits your age and personal risk, whether your previous images are available for comparison, what a recall would involve, and who will explain the result. If you have symptoms, ask whether diagnostic mammography or another test is more appropriate than preventive screening.