Mammogram preparation

Overview

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast that helps spot early signs of breast cancer, often before a lump can be felt.

Yes, millions of women have mammograms every year as part of routine breast screening.

Mammograms are most common for women aged 50 to 70, but younger women may have them if they have symptoms or higher risk. Men can also have mammograms if needed.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A new lump in the breast
• Unexplained breast pain
• Changes in breast shape or size
• Nipple discharge or skin irritation

Symptoms in children

• Breast lumps in children are rare and usually not cancer, but if they occur a doctor may order a mammogram or ultrasound.

Symptoms in older adults

• Same symptoms as younger adults: lumps, pain, skin changes. Older adults should still report any changes to their doctor.

Causes

Main causes

• A mammogram is not caused by anything – it is a test. But the reason you may need one is to check for breast changes that could be cancer.
• Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast grow out of control.

Risk factors

• Getting older
• Having close family members with breast cancer
• Certain inherited gene changes (like BRCA)
• Having dense breast tissue
• Starting periods early or menopause late

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you notice a new lump that persists after your next period
• If you have bloody nipple discharge or a sudden change in breast shape

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are aged 50 to 71 and invited for NHS breast screening, attend even if you feel fine.
• If you have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your GP about starting screening earlier.

Diagnosis

A mammogram is the main test to look inside the breast. If the mammogram shows something unusual, your doctor may suggest other tests like an ultrasound or biopsy.

Tests that may be done

• Mammogram (X-ray of the breast)
• Breast ultrasound (uses sound waves to get a clearer picture)
• Biopsy (removing a tiny sample of tissue to check for cancer)

What to expect at your appointment

On the day, you will stand in front of the X-ray machine. The radiographer will place your breast on a flat plate and lower another plate to gently press it flat. This lasts a few seconds per picture. It may feel uncomfortable but not harmful. You will have two X-rays of each breast. You can go home right after.

Treatment

If your mammogram finds something abnormal, treatment depends on what it is. Many findings are not cancer (benign). If it is cancer, treatment options include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy. Your doctor will explain the best plan for you.

Self-care at home

• While waiting for results, try to keep busy and avoid searching online for symptoms.
• After the mammogram, if you feel sore from the pressure, a warm compress or mild pain relief (like paracetamol) may help – check with your pharmacist.

Medical treatments

Treatments for breast cancer may include surgery to remove the lump or the whole breast, followed by radiation. Drug therapies (such as hormone blockers or chemotherapy) may be given before or after surgery. Always discuss your options with a specialist.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often used when cancer is found. The type depends on the size and location of the tumour. Your surgeon will explain the risks and benefits.

Living with this condition

Most women return to normal activities immediately after a mammogram. If you are waiting for results, try to stay calm – most callbacks are not cancer.

Lifestyle tips

• Limit alcohol
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Be physically active

Diet and exercise

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and getting regular exercise (like walking 30 minutes a day) can help your overall breast health.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Waiting for mammogram results can cause anxiety. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a friend, your GP, or a counsellor. Remember that most abnormal mammograms turn out not to be cancer.

Prevention

You cannot prevent breast cancer entirely, but a healthy lifestyle can lower your risk. Mammograms themselves do not prevent cancer – they help find it early when treatment is most effective.

Screening programmes

NHS breast screening invites women aged 50 to 71 every three years. If you are over 71, you can still ask for screening every three years. Some women with higher risk may be offered screening earlier or more often.

Complications

If left untreated

• If breast cancer is found and not treated, it can grow and spread to other parts of the body, making it harder to treat.

Long-term outlook

When breast cancer is caught early, the chances of successful treatment are very high. Most women treated for early breast cancer live a full, long life. Even for more advanced cases, treatments continue to improve.

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