Is a mammogram painful?
April 24, 2024 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Helma Rothwiller
Dear Doctor,
My name is Jens Peters and I am 48 years old. Unfortunately, there have been several cases of breast cancer in my family, which concerns me greatly. I have read that a mammogram is an important screening test for early detection of breast cancer, but I am worried if this test could be painful.
I have never had a mammogram before and I am unsure of what to expect during the examination. I have heard that the breast is placed between two plates and compressed to take the images. I wonder if this compression could be painful and if the examination could be uncomfortable.
Since I have had some health issues with my breast in the past, I am particularly sensitive and want to ensure that the examination is not too painful for me. However, I also do not want to miss an important screening test that could help me detect a possible illness early.
Could you please tell me if a mammogram is usually painful? Are there ways to reduce the pain during the examination? I would greatly appreciate your expert opinion and possible solutions to alleviate my concerns.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Jens Peters
Dear Jens Peters,
I understand your concern regarding the family history of breast cancer and your uncertainty about getting a mammogram. It is important that you take care of your health and do not ignore any potential warning signs. Let me therefore explain in detail what to expect during a mammogram.
A mammogram is typically a painless examination used to detect breast cancer early. During the mammogram, the breast is placed between two plates and gently compressed to obtain high-resolution X-ray images of the breast. This compression is necessary to evenly distribute the tissue and enable clear images. Many women find this compression uncomfortable but not painful.
To minimize any discomfort during the mammogram, you can take some precautions. For example, you can avoid caffeine before the examination, as caffeine can make the breast more sensitive. It is also advisable to schedule the appointment after your menstruation, as the breasts are less sensitive at that time. Additionally, you can apply a numbing cream before the examination to reduce sensitivity.
It is important that you communicate all concerns and complaints to your doctor so that they can address them accordingly. If you experience any pain during the mammogram, you can also inform your doctor so that they can adjust the compression.
However, it is important to note that the benefits of a mammogram outweigh the potential discomfort. Early detection is crucial in recognizing and successfully treating breast cancer. Therefore, I strongly recommend that you undergo the mammogram to not jeopardize your health.
I hope that I could alleviate some of your concerns regarding the mammogram. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me again if you have any further questions or uncertainties. Your health is a top priority.
Sincerely,
Helma Rothwiller
