It infact helps in early detection of breast cancer.

What is Mammography?

"Mammogram examination is used to aid in the diagnosis of breast diseases in women," says Mumbai based gynaecologist Dr. Reshma Rafi.

"It is basically an X-ray system to examine breasts," she informs.

Going for It

A Mammogram isn't a cancer detector alone. It is a screening tool to detect other breast diseases as well in women experiencing symptoms like:

• Lump or any lesions
• Pain
• Discharge of blood through nipples

Types of Mammogram

There are two types of them.

One is a simple X-ray that checks for calcifications in the breasts and is used to find out whether the tumour is cancerous or non-cancerous.

The other is called as Sonomammography, which is basically sonography of the breasts. It is used to find whether the lump is cystic or solid, that is, whether it contains any pus or fluid or is it solid.

How does it Work?

It works similar to any other X-ray technique. The nurse or the person operating the machine will ask you to place your breasts on a platform and position it accordingly in the X-ray machine. The breasts will be then compressed, a little too tightly to your uncomfortablility.

This is done so that the breasts even out and every tissue can be seen clearly and even the minutest abnormality comes up in the report.

The examination process should not take longer than few minutes.

But it's Painful

"Yes it is a painful procedure. Since breasts are very tender, compressing it or putting any pressure can make you very uncomfortable and it may turn out to be a painful experience," explains Dr. Rafi.

"However, sonomammography is a relatively less painful examination," she continues.

Preparations Before Screening

Keep these pointers in mind before scheduling or going for a mammography to reduce any discomfort during the procedure.

• Do not schedule your mammogram for the week before your period, since your breasts are usually tender at this time.
• Do not wear talcum powder or deodorant before going for the examination. It may show up as calcium deposits on the X-ray report.
• Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the radiologist before the screening so that he takes necessary precautions.
• Ask when your results will be available.

Frequency

A mammogram is not recommended on a frequent basis until you reach the age of 50 and if there are no lesions or abnormal growth.

No 100% Result

The main limitation with mammography is that it is not always enough to determine the existence of a malignant disease with certainty.

It usually has to be followed up with a biopsy and further diagnosis as recommended by your doctor.

While mammography is the best tool available today to detect cancer, it however, does not detect all types of cancer. It can also give a false - positive test, that is, indicate that cancer exists when there is none.

Risks

Although there are no out and out risks to this examination, there is a slight chance of cancer from radiation. "But the chances are next to negligible," informs gynaecologist Dr. Anahita Pandole.