Mammograms

At Complete Healthcare for Women, we offer mammography. Mammography uses x-rays to take images of the breast. The images that result are called mammograms.

Mammogram Uses

Mammograms are used for two reasons: screening and diagnosis. Mammograms are used to screen for breast cancer. Mammograms are performed both on women who have concerns about their breasts and women who show no signs of breast cancer during a breast exam. Mammograms can determine whether there are any changes in breast tissue that went undetected during the exam. Breast changes are normal, particularly in relation to your menstrual cycle, but to determine whether it is benign, it is important to see your doctor. Mammograms are also used as a diagnostic test when there are breast problems.

Who Needs Mammograms

According to the United States Preventive Services Task Force, women over the age of 50 should get a mammogram every two years. If you are under the age of 50 but have a history of breast cancer in your family, your doctor may recommend you also start receiving mammograms.

Preparing For Your Mammogram

If you are getting ready to have a mammogram in your gynecologist’s office, here are some considerations to make to prepare.

• Choose a time of the month when your breasts are less likely to be tender. If you are still menstruating, your breasts are more tender during the week before and week of your period.
• Bring any previous mammograms. If you have had a mammogram before with a different gynecologist, bring them with you to your appointment.
• Don’t use deodorant. Using any personal care products such as deodorant, lotion, or perfume can interfere with your results.
• Use ibuprofen before your appointment. For some women, mammograms are uncomfortable. If you take an over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication before your appointment, you may feel more comfortable.

At Complete Healthcare for Women, we offer mammograms for women who need them. Contact us to learn more about our women’s healthcare services and to schedule an appointment.

Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology

(509) 392-6700

Richard Lorenzo, D.O.

Kortney Jones ARNP

Author

Richard Lorenzo, DO Dr. Lorenzo is also a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He provides gynecological and obstetric services, including prenatal care, pregnancy care, infertility, and gynecology. Dr. Lorenzo is proficient in advanced surgical techniques, including minimally-invasive procedures, as well as surgery for abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and hysterectomy. He has specialized training in high-risk obstetrics and minimally invasive surgical techniques, including minimally invasive hysterectomy.