Mammography

Mammography is an X-ray imaging technique specifically designed to examine breast tissue. Digital mammography and 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) are the standard technologies used today. Nearly 40 million mammograms are performed annually in the US.

Mammography is the primary screening tool for early breast cancer detection. Screening is recommended every 1-2 years starting at age 40 (USPSTF recommends biennial at 40-74). Diagnostic mammography evaluates suspicious findings, lumps, or changes.

Schedule after your period when breasts are least tender. Do not apply deodorant, lotion, or powder to the breast area. Wear a two-piece outfit for convenience. Bring prior mammogram images if switching facilities.

A technologist positions your breast on the mammography machine platform and compresses it firmly between two plates. Compression spreads the tissue for clearer images and reduces radiation dose. Two views of each breast are taken. The exam takes about 20 minutes total.

No recovery time. You can resume all activities immediately. Some women experience brief discomfort during compression. Results are typically available within 1-2 weeks for screening, and the same day for diagnostic mammograms.

Risks are minimal: low-dose radiation exposure, false positives (leading to unnecessary biopsies), false negatives (missed cancers, especially in dense breast tissue), and brief discomfort from compression.

Supplemental screening for women with dense breasts includes breast ultrasound and breast MRI. Newer technologies include contrast-enhanced mammography and molecular breast imaging. Clinical breast exams complement but do not replace mammography.

Screening mammograms are covered at 100% (no cost-sharing) under the ACA for women 40 and older. Medicare covers annual screening. Diagnostic mammograms may have cost-sharing depending on your plan.