*Wear a two-piece outfit so that you will only have to undress from the waist up.

*Do not wear underarm deodorant. Some substances in the deodorant can affect the accuracy of the x-ray.

*If you have sensitive breasts, you may wish to limit your consumption of caffeine for 1-2 weeks before your mammogram.

If your last mammogram was done at a different facility, bring information with you about where and when your last one was performed.

Upon arriving, you'll be asked to fill out a brief health history form.

Next, you will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up, as well as clean off any deodorant you may have on.

The Mammography technologist will ask you to stand next to the mammography machine and to relax so that the breasts can be properly positioned.

The breasts are then compressed by a plastic plate during the examination in order to separate the breast tissue. This may cause a slight discomfort, but only for a brief period of time. The breasts are imaged in at least two different positions. The radiologist will determine if additional views are necessary.

Two views (x-rays) of each breast are taken. Occasionally, additional films are needed to ensure the images are of highest possible quality. The procedure usually takes between 15-30 minutes to complete.

A radiologist will evaluate the images. The radiologist will interpret your results and dictate a written report, which will be forwarded to your physician generally within 24 to 48 hours of completion of your mammogram. Your physician will convey the results of the mammogram to you. If your procedure is a screening mammogram, you will receive a written report in the mail within one week of the procedure.

Ninety-five percent of women aged 50 to 69 that are screened have a normal result and are asked to return in two years. A small number of women may be asked to return after one year if, for example, their breast tissue is especially dense and therefore hard to photograph with a mammogram. Women aged 40 to 49 will also be asked to return in one year. The family physician of women with an abnormal mammogram will arrange for any follow-up tests that may be needed. If the results of the follow-up are normal, women return into the screening program. If a cancer is found, the treatment options will then be discussed. Early detection usually means more options will be available to the patient.