Schedule Your Mammogram.
Once A Year,
Every Year
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Breast Health & Mammograms
at Central Valley Medical Center
Breast cancer is a serious health concern for women, and one that best responds to treatment when caught early. This is why primary care providers place emphasis on the importance of breast health and scheduling an annual mammogram. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that can find calcifications, tumors, and other abnormalities embedded in the soft tissue.
Your annual mammogram serves as a vital test for identifying abnormalities inside and out. If someone in your family has breast cancer, then you are at an increased risk of developing it yourself. Receiving an annual mammogram and staying informed on the current condition of your breasts can help you reduce stress and remain prepared for the future.
Don't wait - schedule your mammogram today
Request AppointmentWhat to expect during a mammogram:
- You will need to be disrobed from the waist up, but we will provide a wrap to wear that will not interfere with the test.
- You will be alone with the person performing the mammogram unless you request the presence of another person.
- Your breast will be compressed between two plates to compress the breast tissue for the x-ray. The compression only lasts for a few seconds—just long enough for your technologist to get a good image of each of your breasts. It's important to get the best images possible
- Some discomfort is expected, but you should speak up if you are in pain. Before your mammogram, we encourage you to ask your technologist to explain the procedure as well as any other questions you have.
- If you have breast implants or dense breast tissue, extra x-rays may be necessary.
- Your physician will contact you to discuss the results once the tests have been analyzed.
Self-Exams
Performing regular breast exams reduces personal stress and helps to ensure that you will catch breast cancer in the earliest stages. The first step in maintaining breast health is becoming more familiar with your breasts so that you can identify abnormalities should they arise. You should perform a thorough self-exam once a month in which you check for abnormal lumps or discolorations. By performing this exam on a regular basis, you will soon learn what is “normal” for your breasts and have an easier time identifying what kind of chances warrant a trip to the doctor.