What happens during a mammogram?

Your mammogram will be performed by a specially trained, female mammographer.

  1. You will be asked to undress from the waist up. 
  2. The mammographer will place one of your breasts between two smooth, flat, plastic surfaces on the mammogram machine. 
  3. The surfaces will squeeze your breast flat for just a few seconds. Compressing the breast this way gives the best image with the lowest dose of radiation.
  4. The same procedure will be repeated for the other breast.

Your mammographer will control the amount of compression so that any discomfort you may feel is not excessive. Note: There may be less discomfort if you schedule your mammogram 1 to 2 weeks after the first day of your last period.

Show All Answers

1. What is a mammogram?
2. Is there much radiation?
3. Will the mammogram will be painful?
4. What should I do on the day of my mammogram?
5. What happens during a mammogram?
6. What happens after a mammogram?
7. What if I get called to come back?