Mammogram Specialist in Orlando, FL

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray of your breast that checks for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms allow the team at The Women’s Center to detect breast cancer in its earliest stages, often up to three years before a lump can be identified during a physical breast exam.

What are the types of mammograms?

The team at The Women’s Center uses mammography for both screening and diagnostic purposes.

• Screening mammogram This type of mammogram checks for changes in breast tissue in women who don’t have signs or symptoms of breast cancer. The goal of screening mammography is to detect cancer before noticeable signs and symptoms develop.
• Diagnostic mammogram A diagnostic mammogram takes more time than a screening procedure and involves additional X-ray images. This type of mammogram investigates existing symptoms such as a new breast lump, pain, or nipple discharge.

The team at The Women’s Center uses the same machine for both screening and diagnostic mammography.

When should I start getting screening mammograms?

Experts and medical organizations disagree on the ideal age and frequency that women should begin getting screening mammograms.

According to the American Cancer Society, women with an average risk of breast cancer should schedule annual mammogram screenings from ages 45 to 54, then continue every two years for at least the next decade. Those who prefer may begin screenings as early as age 40.

Women at higher risk, such as those with a family history of breast cancer, may benefit from screening mammography before age 40.

The best way to determine when and how often you need to be screened is to discuss your concerns and medical history with your provider at The Women’s Center.

What should I expect from a mammogram?

During a mammogram, you undress from the waist up and cover yourself with a gown. You stand in front of a specialized X-ray machine while your provider places one of your breasts on a platform.

The machine gradually presses your breast between the platform and a clear plastic plate. This pressure lasts only a few seconds and is necessary to spread out the breast tissue, but some women find it uncomfortable. If you experience too much pain, let the technician know.

You repeat this process for the other breast. Afterward, you can dress and resume normal activities right away.

To find out if you need a mammogram, call The Women’s Center Hunter’s Creek office to book an appointment.

These screenings are scheduled by the practice at the Hunter’s Creek location