Six common questions about mammograms
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness about breast cancer, screening and early detection. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), mammograms are the best tool to detect breast cancer early, sometimes years before a lump can be found. Early detection is critical for treatment and survival.
Below are five common questions about mammograms:
1. When should I schedule my first mammogram?
Ridgeview recommends an annual mammogram for women beginning at age 40. If you are considered high-risk, your provider may recommend that you have your first screening sooner. Tip: Schedule around your birthday, Breast Cancer Awareness Month or another memorable date that will serve as a reminder each year for you to schedule your appointment.
2. How do 2D and 3D mammograms differ? Should I have one over the other?
2D mammograms take pictures of each breast from the front and the side to create a single image of each breast, while 3D mammograms take several pictures of each breast from different angles, showing each layer of breast tissue. Newer 3D machines take both 2D and 3D images. 3D mammography is now the standard of care and is offered at all Ridgeview imaging locations. 3D mammography is especially recommended for patients with dense breast tissue.
Dense breasts make it harder to see breast cancer on mammograms, and women with dense breasts may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. As of September 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires mammogram facilities to notify patients about their breast density. All mammogram summaries sent to patients following their screening will be required to say whether their breasts are “dense” or “not dense.”
3. Are mammograms safe?
Screening mammograms expose women to a small amount of radiation; however, the benefits of early detection far outweigh the radiation risk. According to the ACS, the dose of radiation used for a screening mammogram of both breasts is about the same amount of radiation a woman would get from her natural surroundings over the course of about seven weeks.
4. How do I prepare for a mammogram?
Avoid wearing deodorant, antiperspirant, creams or lotions the day of your mammogram, which can show up as white spots on the mammogram. Ridgeview provides wipes for you to remove any product from your underarms and breast area before your screening. Because you will be asked to undress from the waist up, it is best to wear a two-piece outfit and avoid wearing one-piece outfits such as a dress or romper.
5. Will my annual mammogram be covered by insurance?
Screening mammograms used for preventive care are generally covered by insurance. The Affordable Care Act requires most health insurers to pay for screening mammograms with no out-of-pocket expenses for women ages 40 and older. However, should you need additional imaging such as a diagnostic mammogram or breast ultrasound, your insurance may require out-of-pocket fees or co-pays. Contact your insurance provider for coverage information specific to your health care plan.
6. Do I need a referral from my primary care provider, or can I schedule directly through Ridgeview?
If you are over the age of 40 and have not had a mammogram in the past 12 months, you can schedule directly through Ridgeview’s imaging department by calling 952.777.4471 or request your appointment online using the button below.
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