Do not apply deodorant, antiperspirants, lotions, or perfumes before your mammogram appointment.If you’re not menopausal, this usually means the week after your period ends. Try to schedule your mammogram for a time of the month when your breasts won’t be tender.Be sure to discuss the possible advantages and disadvantages of early breast cancer screening with your doctor.Īs with any other procedure, you can ensure things go as smoothly as possible at your mammogram or ultrasound with a little planning. Women with a greater chance of developing breast cancer might choose to start between the ages of 40 and 49. While medical guidelines vary, it’s recommended that women with an average risk of breast cancer begin screening mammograms between the ages of 45 and 54. At times, your doctor may order a diagnostic mammogram to further assess the findings of a screening mammogram. Signs include lumps, breast pain, nipple discharge, or changes in breast size or shape, among others. Other abnormalities, such as calcifications which could indicate breast cancer, may also appear during this type of screening.ĭiagnostic mammograms, on the other hand, are used when a potential symptom of breast cancer presents itself. It’s capable of detecting small tumors that cannot be felt during a physical examination. It’s known as a screening mammogram, and involves taking two or more x-rays of each breast. Mammograms are routinely used to check for breast cancer in women who don’t have any signs of the illness.

Ultrasound vs sonogram