WHAT KIND OF EXAMINATION IS MAMMOGRAPHY?

A mammogram is a special type of breast X-ray taken using low-dose x-rays.

A mammogram is a special type of breast X-ray using low-dose x-rays. It's used to detect abnormalities in the breast that are too small to be detected by physical examination. This is the true value of mammography, as it detects disease before it can be detected by physical examination.

No medication is used during a mammogram, nor are there any injections.

During the mammogram, the breast is gently compressed between two plates. Depending on the individual's condition, tenderness may occur, especially in fibrocystic breasts and around the time of menstruation. For these women, minimal compression is applied to reduce pain.