Types of Mammograms
Screening mammograms
These are routine X-rays taken in women who don’t have any symptoms. Two different angles of each breast are captured to look for any unusual changes.
Diagnostic mammograms
If you have symptoms or something unusual shows up on a screening mammogram, diagnostic mammograms are used to take extra images. They can also be used for women with a history of breast cancer to keep a close watch on their breast health.
What Mammograms Can Show
Mammograms can reveal different kinds of breast changes, including:
- Calcifications - Tiny deposits of calcium.
- Masses - Areas that might be denser than surrounding tissues.
- Asymmetries or distortions - Irregularities that could indicate an issue.
How Mammograms Work
During a mammogram, your breast is gently compressed between two plates to spread out the tissue for a clearer image. This compression helps use a lower radiation dose and gives a better picture of your breast tissue.
Digital vs. 3D Mammograms
Most mammograms today are digital, which means the images are stored on a computer. A 3D mammogram (or breast tomosynthesis) takes multiple low-dose X-rays from different angles, creating thin slices of your breast tissue. This can help reduce the number of callbacks for extra tests and may be especially useful for women with dense breasts.
Are Mammograms Safe?
Mammograms do expose your breasts to a small amount of radiation, but the dose is very low, comparable to the natural background radiation you’d receive over about seven weeks. For most women, the benefits of early cancer detection far outweigh the minimal risks from radiation.
If you think you might be pregnant, let your healthcare provider know before your mammogram. While the risk is very low, it is important to keep them informed.
In short, mammograms are a safe, effective way to monitor breast health. They help catch potential issues early so they can be treated promptly
