11/14/07

Preparation for your mammography exam 

   DO NOT wear deodorant or powder on your breasts. Many of theses products contain metals that can show up as calcifications in your breast.

   Try to relax, relaxing your muscles makes the exam easier for you and the Technologist will get better pictures.

   There will be two pictures of each breast taken.  The breast will be compressed between two plates. Compression is uncomfortable but should not be painful.  Compression is important because it separates out the breast tissue and reduces the exposure from the x-rays.

   Wear comfortable clothing; a two-piece outfit is usually the best, as you will be asked to undress from the waist up.  If possible you should not schedule your mammogram just before or during your menstrual period, especially if you have breast pain at that time.

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