When to schedule mammograms is an important question and why one must pay heed to it. Women who have regular mammograms must consider paying special attention to when they are scheduled. New research and developments have found that the timing of the mammograms affects the accuracy of the results for the treatment.
As the timing of the mammograms affects the results, it is advised to schedule it during the first week of your menstrual cycle.
Earlier studies have looked into the fact the timing of the mammograms is very in the first half of the cycle. Other research focused on the breast density that may be lower during the first half of the cycle. Breast density affects the effectiveness of mammograms. If the dense tissue is present, it becomes difficult to look for cancer.
Things to keep in mind while going for a mammogram testing-
- Skip the deodorant- Totally avoid using deodorant, antiperspirants, and powders under your arms or near the breasts. The particles present in these products will show up in the mammogram and will cause unnecessary confusion.
- Schedule it one week after the period- Breasts are tender and sensitive during the week before and after the treatment during the periods. The best time to get a mammogram is usually one week following your period.
- Leave your necklace and jewelry at home-
- Anything at the neck will interfere with obtaining clear x-ray images of your breasts. Make sure to leave the accessories at home.
- Bring any prior mammogram images-
- Going to a new facility for your mammogram will request you to give any prior mammograms done. Tell the technologist about the earlier findings and results. The technologist will compare the exam and bring forth the current results.
- Take your daily medications, don’t miss them. Consider reducing the intake of caffeinated beverages and chocolate for 3-4 days earlier to the appointment. Do not forget to bring the doctor’s prescription for the mammogram study. It is important to notify the technician of any pain, particularly the pain felt is severe. A mammogram doesn’t hurt much that it will deter a person from further testing. If a person is not comfortable they must let the technician know and for a different technician or different mammogram Center. Many are willing to take time and reduce the discomfort caused.
Special guidelines for considering mammograms-
- Women aged from 40-49 years- They must ask a doctor for guidance
- Women aged from 50-75 years- Must undergo a mammogram screening every two years.
- Aged 75 years and above- Discontinue screening.
People with any of the following need additional screening-
- A personal history of breast cancer or high-risk lesions
- Genetic factors and mutations
- A history of chest radiation exposure.
Well, A mammogram is a simple screening technique that doesn’t take much time. This screening requires minimal preparation and recovery time. A mammogram uses a digital X-Ray machine that takes pictures from varied angles. A similar and regular mammogram can be done by producing 3D pictures. Usually, the results of the screening test are given within a week and always do a follow-up treatment.
