Overview
Mammography is a medical imaging test that takes X-ray pictures of the breast. It is commonly used to help find breast cancer early, sometimes before a person can feel a lump. A mammogram can also help investigate breast symptoms such as a new lump, nipple changes, or unusual breast pain.
Who Is Affected
Mammography is mainly used for adults who have breasts and are within screening age ranges set by local or national health guidelines. It may also be recommended for younger people with symptoms or a higher-than-average risk of breast cancer. Screening recommendations can differ by country, age, family history, and personal medical history.
Prevention
Mammography does not prevent breast cancer, but it can help detect some cancers earlier. Following screening guidance from your local health authority or clinician may improve the chance of finding changes sooner. Breast awareness, knowing your family history, and attending follow-up appointments are also important.
Diagnosis and Tests
During a mammogram, each breast is placed on a flat support and gently compressed for a few seconds while images are taken. The compression can feel uncomfortable or briefly painful for some people, but it helps produce clearer images with less repeat testing. Results are reviewed by a trained radiologist, and you may be called back for more views, ultrasound, MRI, or sometimes a biopsy if something needs closer evaluation.
Living With It
Waiting for mammogram results can feel stressful, especially if you are called back for extra imaging. Many callbacks do not turn out to be cancer, but follow-up is important to clarify the finding. If you feel anxious, it may help to ask when results will be available and what the next step would be if more testing is needed.
When to Seek Medical Care
Contact a healthcare professional if you notice a new breast lump, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, nipple pulling inward, persistent breast swelling, or a change in breast shape or size. You should also seek care if you have been told you need follow-up after a mammogram. If you think you may be pregnant, tell the imaging team before the test so they can advise you appropriately.
Questions to Ask a Healthcare Professional
You may want to ask whether mammography is recommended for you based on your age, symptoms, and family history. Ask what type of mammogram you are having, when you should expect results, and whether you need any follow-up imaging. If you have breast implants, prior breast surgery, or difficulty standing, let the imaging team know and ask how the test will be adapted.