The Mammogram – something all of us will need to get at some point in our lives.
And for those who have never experienced the joy of a mammogram – let me tell you that it’s not as bad as you think.
Really. I promise.
You will have to wear one of those amazing gowns that open in the front. Don’t try to put it on the other way, although it seems more prudent to have it open in the back, that’s the wrong way.
Pro tip – don’t wear any deodorant, lotion, oils, or perfumes. It can mess with the imaging and the last thing you want is to have to do it again.
A tech will be in the room with you positioning your breast at just the right angle, and once it’s positioned between two plastic imaging plates the pressure will be applied.
Yes, it’s uncomfortable. No, it is not worse than childbirth, but it’s also no trip to Disney!
Pro tip – RELAX. I get it, trying to relax while having what feels like your incredibly vulnerable breasts inside a vice seems absolutely impossible – BUT it is extremely important to try your best to relax. If you tense up you will be fighting against the plates making it more difficult to complete the mammogram. So, just relax.
And that’s it my friends. The whole entire process of getting the mammogram done goes pretty fast, in my experience, it lasted less than fifteen minutes.
And like I said, it really isn’t that bad. I received my results a few days later, but I believe that depends on your provider and also the reason behind having your exam.
So, don’t wait to get a Mammogram. If you have a history of breast cancer, talk to your provider about getting an exam before you are forty. Once you hit forty, be sure to schedule your exam as often as your provider recommends and again, if you EVER feel or see something suspicious – GET IMAGING DONE IMMEDIATELY.
Like, it’s no joke. There is nothing funny about it – get checked and stay healthy.
