Mammography

Who should get an annual mammogram?

• Women at average risk for breast cancer should begin annual screening mammograms at age 40, according to updated recommendations from major organizations including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Society of Breast Imaging, and the American Cancer Society.

• Women at higher risk (due to family history, genetic mutations, or prior chest radiation) may need to start screening earlier and should discuss additional imaging, such as MRI, with their healthcare provider.

Why is it important to start at age 40?

• Starting at 40 allows for earlier detection of breast cancer, which is often more treatable at early stages. A significant number of new breast cancer cases occur in women in their 40's.

• A baseline mammogram at 40 provides a reference for future screenings, making it easier to detect changes over time.

How often should I get a mammogram?

• Most guidelines recommend annual mammograms for women starting at age 40.

• Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and expected to live at least 10 more years.

Do I need a mammogram if I have no symptoms or a family history?

• Yes. Most breast cancers detected by mammography have no symptoms, and most women diagnosed do not have a family history of breast cancer.

What should I expect during a mammogram?

• You’ll undress above the waist and wear a provided gown. Each breast is compressed for a few seconds to take X-ray images. The procedure usually takes about 15 minutes, with compression lasting 10–15 seconds per image.

• Some discomfort is normal, but let the technologist know if it is painful.

How should I prepare for my mammogram?

• Avoid wearing deodorant, powders, or lotions under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam, as these can affect the images.  If you forget, no problem, we have wet wipes to remove these products.

• Inform the technologist about any breast changes, implants, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can breast self-exams replace mammograms?

• No. While knowing how your breasts normally look and feel is important, self-exams are not a substitute for mammograms, which can detect cancers not felt during self-exams.

What happens after my mammogram?

• A radiologist will interpret your images. Results are sent to you and your healthcare provider. If anything unusual is found, you may be called back or referred for additional images or tests.

If my mammogram is clear, do I need to return next year?

• Yes. Regular annual screening is important because breast cancer can develop between screenings, and tracking changes over time helps catch cancer early.

Do women with small breasts need mammograms?

• Yes. Breast size does not affect the need for screening. Mammography is effective for all breast sizes.

Where can I get a mammogram?

• HT Family Physicians now offers 3D screening mammography in the convenience of our Stockton office.  Mammograms can be scheduled just before your annual well-woman visit, or as a stand-alone screening. Any prior images will be obtained for comparison purposes by our staff.

Mammogram Release Form  (Authorization for HT Family Physicians / Central Valley Mammography to request previous scans from another office)

What if I am at high risk for breast cancer?

• Women at high risk may need to start screening earlier and have additional tests like MRI. Discuss your risk factors and screening plan with your healthcare provider.