What is a Mammogram and why do you need one?

As a woman, we endure a lot of medical discomfort to ensure optimum health and the mammogram is no exception. Most women liken it to getting their breast squashed in a sandwich press, and unfortunately this pain can deter a lot of women from going back regularly to be checked. SAHM had a look at just what is involved in getting a mammogram and some simple facts about this procedure that is a major preventative measure in the treatment of breast cancer.

What is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast and breast tissue and is the most common form of breast imaging. Breast imaging can also include ultrasounds and, rarely, MRI scans. These images are used to detect any signs of breast cancer. There are 2 types of mammograms:

• Screening Mammograms – are used for women who do not have any symptoms of breast cancer, have not had breast cancer in the past and are performed for the purpose of detecting breast cancer at an early stage.
• Diagnostic Mammograms – several x-rays are taken in order to obtain views of the breast/s from different angles. These mammograms are for women who have had, have symptoms of, or who have a strong family history of breast cancer.

Who Needs To Get A Mammogram?

Most breast screening clinics in Australia will screen women free of charge as long as they are over 40 and have never been diagnosed with, or have symptoms of, breast cancer. Screening mammograms should be undertaken every 2 years.

Women who have had breast cancer or who are at a high risk of developing breast cancer are recommended to have a diagnostic mammogram on a doctors referral and at advised intervals. If a woman has a family history of breast cancer or carries the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene (a known gene mutation associated with hereditary breast cancer (www.bcna.org.au)) she is encouraged to seek a doctors referral for regular diagnostic mammography.

What To Expect At A Mammogram Appointment

Every clinic is different, but the basic structure of a mammogram appointment involves:

• On arrival at the clinic, you will be asked to sign a consent form that explains that mammography is not 100% accurate but offers the best chance to detect cancers early.
• You will be asked to remove you clothing above the waist and put on a gown. The radiographer should explain the procedure, how the mammogram is taken and adjust the machine to suit your height.
• Each breast is compressed between two plates to get a clear picture of the breast tissue, this is the part that most women find a little uncomfortable. Two x-rays are taken of each breast, one from the top and one from the side.
• Your mammogram will take a few minutes and the whole appointment should take about half an hour.
• Your mammogram images are assessed by two doctors, at least one of whom must be a radiologist. Any abnormalities detected on the x-rays will require further tests.
• Most clinics will advise you in writing within 28 days as to the outcome of your screen.

Where can I get a Mammogram?

The Government Department of Health runs a BreastScreen program in all states and territories of Australia, that provides free screening mammograms and also issues reminder notices. Search for clinics in your area at BreastScreen Australia.

In Australia, women have a 1 in 8 risk of developing breast cancer (www.breastscreen.health.gov.au) and less than 1% of women screened are found to have cancer. So if you are due, get yourself checked out today. After all, a moments discomfort is nothing comparable to the benefits of early detection.

If you become concerned about your or anyone else’s health please seek immediate medical attention or go to our health hotlines and website post for further resources  https://www.stayathomemum.com.au/my-kids/babies/important-hotlines-websites/ 

SAHM takes no responsibility for any illness, injury or death caused by misuse of this information.  All information provided is correct at time of publication. 

Sources

www.cancerscreening.gov.au – BreastScreen Australia Government Department of Health

www.bna.org.au – Breast Cancer Network Australia

www.cancer.org.au – Cancer Council Australia