Mammography

Mammography is a diagnostic method used for early detection of potential pathological abnormalities in the breast. This procedure uses X-rays to image the breast and identify any anomalies, including tumors, cysts, or other abnormalities. Mammography is a key tool in the fight against breast cancer, providing early diagnosis and enabling faster and more effective treatment, which significantly reduces mortality from this disease.

How is mammography imaging performed?

The mammography procedure usually lasts a few minutes. The patient places her breasts on the plate of the mammogram, the breasts are then gently pressed with the plates to equalize the thickness of the tissue in order to obtain the clearest possible image. Although this procedure can be uncomfortable due to the pressure on the breasts, most women tolerate it without problems and it cannot be characterized as painful, but only as a mildly unpleasant process.

When is a mammography examination performed?

Regular screening mammograms arerecommended for women over the age of 40 years or for younger patients who have an increased risk of breast cancer. Doctors often recommend annual mammograms as part of a routine preventive health checkup, especially if they find any abnormalities or suspicious lesions during a breast ultrasound.

The ideal time for performing a mammogram is in the first half of the menstrual cycle, i.e. a few days after the end of menstruation. During this part of the cycle, the breasts are usually less sensitive and less susceptible to swelling or tissue changes, which can result in clearer and more accurate mammography images. However, if a mammogram needs to be performed outside this period, the day of the cycle is not necessarily a limitation. In such cases, it is important to inform the medical professionals performing the scan about the date of the last menstrual period so that they cantake into account factors that may affect the interpretation of mammography results.

Indications for mammography scanning

There are certain indications that a mammogram is advisable, such as the following:

• Regular screening mammograms are recommended for women over the age of 40 years. These areaimed at detecting potential breast-related medical issues,primarily breast cancer,early.
• Diagnostic mammogram: If you notice any abnormalities in your breasts, such as lumps, swelling, or changes in the shape or texture of your breasts, a mammogram may be recommended to identify the cause of those abnormalities.
• Family history of breast cancer: If you have a family history of breast cancer, especially if your mother, sister(s), or other close relatives have had the disease, regular mammograms are recommended as part of preventive measures.
• Previous suspicious findings: If you have had previous mammograms with suspicious results, further follow-up and regular examinations are recommended to monitor the state of the breasts and identify any progression of the previously described abnormalities.
• Follow-up after breast cancer treatment: After breast cancer treatment is completed, regular follow-up examinations are recommended to monitor the possible recurrence of the disease or side effects of treatment.
• Genetic predisposition to breast cancer: If you have a genetic predisposition to breast cancer, for example, BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, regular mammography screening is recommended, as suggested by your doctor.

Preparing for a mammogram

Preparing for a mammogram is not complicated, but it is helpful to follow certain steps to ensure the procedure is as accurate and comfortable as possible:

• Do not use deodorants or creams: Before a mammogram, avoid applying deodorants, lotions, or powders to the breast or armpit area. These products may contain ingredients that interfere with mammography results.
• Choose comfortable clothing: Wear comfortable clothing, specifically a top, that can be easily removed, to allow easier access to the breasts for examination.
• Inform the doctor about previous examinations: If you have had previous mammograms or any other diagnostic tests of the breasts, inform the doctor about this before the examination starts.
• Bring your medical records: If you have them, bring previous mammography results or any other relevant medical records with you thatcan provide your doctor with information on the examinations performed so far.