A mammogram is a specialized X-ray used to screen for breast cancer by detecting changes in breast tissue. This medical imaging procedure requires specific preparation to ensure the resulting images are clear, accurate, and free of artifacts that could interfere with interpretation. Proper readiness helps avoid the inconvenience of a “call-back” for additional imaging. Understanding the simple steps for preparation ensures the best possible screening experience.
Guidelines for Eating and Drinking
No dietary restrictions are required before a mammogram. You may eat and drink normally on the day of your appointment, as food consumption does not affect the quality of the X-ray images. Continue to take all prescription and over-the-counter medications as scheduled, and stay hydrated.
Some experts suggest being mindful of certain beverages to maximize comfort during the screening process. Caffeinated products, such as coffee, tea, and energy drinks, can increase breast tenderness. While avoiding caffeine does not impact image quality, reducing it beforehand may minimize the discomfort associated with breast compression. If you are prone to pain or sensitivity, consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, one to two hours before your scheduled time.
Preparing the Skin: Avoiding Topical Interference
The most important external preparation involves ensuring the skin on and around the breasts and underarms is completely free of certain products. You must avoid applying deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams, or perfumes to the entire chest and armpit area on the day of your mammogram.
This restriction is necessary because many of these products contain microscopic metallic substances, such as aluminum or talc. These particles absorb the X-ray energy, causing them to appear on the final image as tiny white spots, known as artifacts.
These artifacts can look similar to calcifications, which are small calcium deposits in the breast tissue. Although most calcifications are benign, a cluster of them can be an early indicator of breast cancer. Product residue makes it difficult for the radiologist to distinguish a genuine abnormality from these deposits. Mistaking an artifact for a true calcification can lead to an inconclusive result, requiring the patient to return for additional imaging.
Interference with Positioning
Applying lotions or creams can also make the skin slippery, interfering with the technologist’s ability to properly position and compress the breast tissue. Compression is designed to spread the tissue for a clearer view and reduce motion blur. If the breast is slick, it may shift on the imaging plate, resulting in a blurry or sub-optimal image. This movement necessitates a repeat exposure to ensure a clear reading. Arriving with clean, dry skin is essential for a high-quality screening.
Timing Your Appointment
For women with a regular menstrual cycle, the timing of the mammogram appointment can significantly affect comfort and image quality. The ideal time to schedule the examination is during the follicular phase, specifically the first two weeks following the start of your period. This window corresponds to the time when hormonal fluctuations cause the least amount of breast tenderness and swelling.
During the second half of the cycle, known as the luteal phase, elevated hormone levels cause breast tissue to become more dense, swollen, and sensitive. Scheduling an appointment during this time increases the discomfort experienced during breast compression.
The increased glandular tissue density during the luteal phase also makes the mammogram more challenging to interpret. Dense tissue appears white on the X-ray, potentially obscuring small abnormalities. Scheduling the procedure when the breasts are naturally less dense and tender optimizes the experience and ensures the clearest possible image for review.