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If you’ve never had a mammogram before, it’s normal to have questions or feel a little unsure about what to expect. This guide is designed to walk you through what your first mammogram appointment is like at VNA Health Care, from preparation to what happens during the exam.
A mammogram is a breast imaging exam that helps detect early signs of breast cancer, often before you can feel any changes. If you want to learn more about the procedure, visit our mammography page.
How to Prepare For a Mammogram
On the day of your mammogram, try to wear a two-piece outfit so it’s easy to undress from the waist up. Avoid using deodorant, lotion, powder, or perfume on your underarms or breasts, as these products can interfere with the images. If you have had prior mammograms at another clinic, let your provider know so those records can be requested if needed.
If you are nervous or have concerns, don’t hesitate to bring them up with your provider ahead of time. The VNA team is here to support you, answer your questions, and help you feel comfortable and prepared every step of the way.
What to Expect From Your Mammogram
When you arrive for your appointment, a trained imaging professional will guide you through each step and explain what they are doing along the way.
During Your Mammogram
During the exam, your breast will be placed on the mammogram machine and gently compressed for a few seconds while images are taken. This compression helps create clear pictures so even small changes in breast tissue can be seen. You will be asked to hold still briefly, and the process will be repeated to capture images from different angles. The staff will make sure you are positioned comfortably and will adjust as needed.
After Your Mammogram
After your mammogram, you can return to your normal activities right away. A radiologist will review the images and share the results with your VNA provider. Your provider will then contact you to explain the results and discuss any next steps, if needed. If additional imaging is recommended, the VNA team will help guide you through what comes next.
Common Questions About The Mammogram Procedure
How Long Does A Mammogram Take?
A mammogram is a fairly quick exam. The imaging itself usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. This includes positioning, taking images of each breast, and making sure the pictures are clear. You may spend a little extra time checking in or changing before the exam, but most appointments are completed in under 30 minutes.
Does a Mammogram Hurt?
A mammogram is not usually painful, but some people do feel brief discomfort during the exam. You may feel pressure when your breast is gently compressed to take clear images. This pressure only lasts a few seconds and is an important part of getting accurate results.
In exceptional cases, a woman may experience pain during a mammogram. This is often due to one of the following factors:
- The size and shape of the breasts
- How firmly they need to be pressed
- Menstruation – breasts are often more sensitive during periods
- If mammography is done after breast surgery or breast biopsy
- If you are taking blood-thinning medication
If you are in pain or feel uncomfortable, let the imaging staff know. They can adjust your positioning to help make the exam as comfortable as possible. You don’t experience any continued pain or discomfort once the procedure is completed.
Are There Any Side Effects or Risks From Mammograms?
Mammograms are very safe. Some people worry about radiation exposure, but mammograms use a very low dose of radiation (much less than many other imaging tests). For most women, the benefits of early cancer detection far outweigh this minimal exposure.
Breast Ultrasound vs Mammogram
Mammograms and breast ultrasounds are both imaging tests used to look at breast tissue, but they serve different purposes and are often used together.
A mammogram is the primary screening tool for breast cancer. It uses low-dose X-rays to detect changes in breast tissue, including lumps or calcifications, before they can be felt. Mammograms are recommended regularly for breast cancer screening, even if you do not have symptoms.
A breast ultrasound uses sound waves instead of X-rays. It is not typically used as a screening test on its own, but it may be ordered if a mammogram shows an area that needs a closer look, or if you have dense breast tissue. Ultrasound can help providers determine whether a lump is solid or fluid-filled.
Your VNA provider will decide which test you need based on your age, breast tissue, symptoms, and mammogram results. In some cases, both tests are used together to give a clearer picture and ensure you receive the most accurate care.
Scheduling a Mammogram in Aurora, IL
At VNA Health Care, mammograms are scheduled through your primary care provider or women’s health provider. If you are interested in a mammogram, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your doctor or Nurse Practitioner. During that visit, they will review your health history, answer any questions, and place the order for your mammogram. This service is only available at our Highland Avenue location in Aurora.
Do You Offer Free Mammograms in Aurora, IL?
VNA Health Care offers free mammograms to eligible patients through the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program (IBCCP). This program is available to patients in DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Kankakee, and Will counties.
To qualify for a free mammogram through IBCCP, you must:
- Be an Illinois resident
- Have no health insurance
- Be between the ages of 35 and 64
Some VNA patients may also qualify for free or low-cost mammograms through Illinois Medicaid, even if they are not currently enrolled. If you need help applying for Medicaid, the VNA benefits assistance team can help. Call VNA Health Care to get help and learn which programs you may qualify for.
Funding provided in whole or in part by the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program