7 Things to Now About Getting a Mammogram

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This document provides information about mammograms, including what they are, where to get them, when to schedule them, what to wear, what to expect during the process, how to get results, and cost considerations. It emphasizes the importance of mammograms for early breast cancer detection and encourages readers to discuss the procedure with their doctors. The document also includes resources for finding free or low-cost mammogram services and additional information on breast cancer.

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--- Document: 7 Things to Now About Getting a Mammogram Document ---
things to know 
about getting 
a mammogram
cancer.org | 1.800.227.2345
Mammograms (breast x-rays) are the best tests we have to find 
breast cancer early, when treatment is more likely to be successful. 
Talk with your doctor about when you should get a mammogram. 
Here’s what you need to know about getting a mammogram.
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that’s used to find breast changes. 
Mammograms are done with a machine that only looks at breast tissue. 
The machine takes x-rays at lower doses of radiation than the x-rays 
done to look at other parts of the body.
Find a center that does many mammograms in a day. When you find a center 
you like, stick with it. Having all your mammograms at the same place will 
make it easier for doctors to compare images from one year to the next. 
If you’ve had mammograms done at other centers, have those images sent to 
your new center. 
It’s best to schedule your mammogram about a week after your menstrual 
period. Your breasts won’t be as tender or swollen, which means less 
discomfort during the mammogram. 
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What is a 
mammogram?
1
2
Where to 
get it
3
When to 
schedule it


Wear a 2-piece outfit because you will need to remove your top and bra. 
Do not use deodorant, antiperspirant, powder, lotion, or ointment under 
your arms or on your chest on the day of your mammogram. These products 
can appear as white spots on the x-ray. 
You should get your results within 10 days. If you don’t, call to ask about 
them. Your mammogram report will tell you if you have dense breast tissue. 
Talk with your doctor about what that may mean for you.
If doctors find an area of concern, you may need new x-rays or other tests. 
That doesn’t mean you have cancer. The doctor may have seen something 
that just looks different or the images weren’t clear.
The entire process takes about 20 minutes. The breast is compressed between 
2 plastic plates for a few seconds while an x-ray is taken. The plates are moved 
to a new position, and the breast is compressed again to take another view. 
The same process is done on the other breast. Flattening the breast can be 
uncomfortable, but it is needed to provide the clearest view. 
For women who are uninsured or can’t afford the cost, free or low-cost 
mammogram services are available. Some of these programs are held during 
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, while others are offered 
year round. Call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 to find a 
program near you.
©2025, American Cancer Society, Inc.  No. 012699  Rev. 6/25
Visit cancer.org/breastcancer for more 
breast cancer information and support.
cancer.org | 1.800.227.2345
$
What (and what not) 
to wear
4
What to 
expect
5
What 
you pay
7
Getting the 
results
6