October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about early detection, prevention, and support for those affected by breast cancer.
Our team at Women’s Specialists of Fayette serves women throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area. Our comprehensive care focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating the health challenges that women face.
When it comes to breast health, you’ve probably heard about the importance of breast self-exams and annual physicals. Today, as part of your wellness team, we would like to focus on mammograms and their role in early cancer detection.
Let’s take a look at when to have your first mammogram and what to expect during the study.
Guidelines vary slightly, but most experts agree that women at average risk for breast cancer should begin screening mammograms at age 40.
If you have a family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2), or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting mammograms earlier.
The best way to determine the correct mammogram schedule for you is to talk with your healthcare provider. At Women’s Health Specialists of Fayette, we always discuss health screenings in detail and welcome questions about our recommendations.
Mammograms are low-dose X-rays of the breast that can detect changes you cannot feel during a self-exam. When a mammogram detects breast cancer at an early stage, treatment is often less invasive, and survival rates are much higher.
Your first mammogram is a proactive step toward protecting your long-term health. It’s not just a test; it’s peace of mind.
There are several types of mammograms used for breast cancer screening and diagnosis. Each type uses low-dose X-rays but differs in how images are captured and displayed.
The main types of mammograms include:
We’re pleased to offer advanced 3D screening mammography at Women’s Specialists of Fayette. During the study, we take multiple X-ray images of the breast from different angles.
A computer then compiles these pictures into a 3D image of breast tissue in thin “slices.” It provides a clearer, more detailed view compared to traditional 2D mammography.
The advantages of 3D mammography include:
Helps radiologists distinguish harmless overlapping tissue from actual abnormalities.
Detects more invasive breast cancers than standard 2D mammograms.
Reduces false positives and the need for women to return for extra testing.
Dense breast tissue can hide cancers on 2D images; 3D improves visibility.
Many women are nervous before their appointment, but knowing what to expect can help ease those worries.
We ask you to undress from the waist up and put on a gown. Avoid wearing deodorant, lotion, or powders under your arms or on your breasts, as these can affect the images.
A technologist positions your breast on the X-ray machine and compresses it with a plastic plate. The compression may feel uncomfortable, but it only lasts a few seconds.
We recommend scheduling your mammogram for one week after your menstrual cycle, when your breasts are less tender. The entire process typically takes about 20 minutes and is generally well tolerated.
Once we review the mammogram results, we contact you with the findings.
By scheduling regular screenings, staying aware of your body, and talking openly with your doctor, you’re taking active steps to protect your health.
Schedule an appointment at Women’s Specialists of Fayette today by calling our office or using our online service to book your visit.
