Mammograms are an important screening tool for breast health and early cancer detection. Proper preparation ensures accurate and effective imaging. Knowing what to avoid before your appointment helps achieve clear images, reducing the need for repeat tests and minimizing anxiety.
Applying Certain Products
Avoid applying deodorants, antiperspirants, lotions, powders, and creams to the underarm and breast areas before a mammogram. These products often contain metallic particles, like aluminum, which can appear as tiny white specks on images. These specks can mimic calcifications, small calcium deposits that may indicate early breast cancer. Such artifacts can obscure concerns or lead to false positives, potentially requiring additional imaging or biopsies. If products are already on, facilities usually provide wipes for cleaning.
Wearing Jewelry and Specific Clothing
For a smooth mammogram, avoid wearing necklaces, large earrings, or other jewelry that could interfere with imaging. Metallic items create artifacts on X-ray images, similar to topical products, potentially obscuring breast tissue. Jewelry also needs removal for proper positioning. Wearing comfortable, two-piece clothing, like a top and pants or a skirt, is advisable. This allows you to easily undress from the waist up while keeping your lower garments on during the examination.
Ignoring Your Menstrual Cycle
For pre-menopausal individuals, scheduling a mammogram during the week before or during the menstrual period is not recommended. Hormonal fluctuations can cause breast tissue to become more tender, swollen, or dense. Increased breast density makes it more challenging for radiologists to accurately interpret images, as dense tissue appears white, similar to potential abnormalities. The increased sensitivity and discomfort during this time can also make the compression required for a mammogram more painful. Scheduling the mammogram during the week following your period can result in less breast tenderness and clearer images.
Not Disclosing Important Information
Provide the mammography technologist and radiologist with all relevant medical information. This includes details about any new lumps, pain, nipple discharge, or changes in breast appearance. Disclosing information about breast implants, prior breast surgeries, or biopsies is also essential. Sharing your family history of breast cancer and any previous mammograms from other facilities also helps the medical team. This comprehensive history enables the team to accurately interpret images, compare them with past results, and identify areas needing closer attention for a precise assessment.