Mammography, also known as breast screening or breast X-ray, is used to detect changes that have occurred in a woman’s breast. The image that is produced from breast screening can show up changes in breast tissue.
A mammogram is produced by passing a type of radiation through the body, in the same way as with other X-ray. Dense parts of the body, such as bone, show as a clear white on the image produced, while softer areas such as the heart and lungs are darker. Because there is only a small amount of radiation involved, the process is not harmful.
According to Macmillan Cancer Support, screening for breast cancer in this way saves the lives of around 1,400 women a year across England.
Our breast care nurse consultant will start by examining your breasts and teaching you about breast awareness. This will help you to check your breasts regularly, and knowing what is normal for them will make it easier for you to notice if anything about them changes in the future.
You will then have a digital mammogram, carried out by a mammographer and interpreted by a consultant. During the mammogram, the breast that is being X-rayed is held between two metal plates. This can be slightly uncomfortable, but it is a quick and pain-free procedure.
After your examination, you can obtain a copy of the mammogram images upon request. A report will be produced and sent directly to the doctor who referred you to us.
You will usually receive the results of your assessment within 48 hours, and can choose to hear these by phone, via your GP, or in person.
