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Benefits of Mammography Mammography is the most reliable method for identifying breast cancer in its earliest stages – when it’s easiest to cure. With early detection and treatment, 90 percent of all breast cancers can be cured. Mammography uses low dose X-ray to create vivid images of the breast tissue. Current guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommend that women have a mammogram every year beginning at age 40. An annual mammogram should be part of every woman’s breast care, along with monthly self-examinations and annual physical checkups. Mammography is primarily used as a breast cancer screening tool. It is also used to identify abnormalities in the breast, such as a lump that can be felt by hand or abnormal nipple discharge. If a patient needs a breast biopsy, surgeons rely on mammograms to pinpoint the exact location of the lesion. How It Works The exam usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. The mammographer takes two images of each breast from different angles. The breast is carefully placed on a special surface and then tightly, but gently, compressed by an acrylic paddle. This allows for reduced X-ray exposure and better detail on the image. The procedure is somewhat uncomfortable but generally not painful and it is over quickly. Board-certified radiologists interpret the mammograms, identifying any areas of concern. A report is sent to your physician, and a letter is also mailed to you with the results. If a questionable area is seen on your mammogram, the radiologist may recommend further tests. In Preparation - If caffeine increases the tenderness of your breasts, you may want to eliminate caffeine from your diet for two weeks before your mammogram.
- If you have premenstrual breast tenderness, it’s best to schedule your mammogram after your period has ended.
- Do not use any lotion, powder or deodorant on your breast or under your arms the day of the exam.
- Please wear a two-piece outfit as you will be asked to remove your blouse and bra and wear a gown that will be removed for the procedure.
Bring Your prior Mammograms and reports If you’ve had a mammogram before, the radiologist would like to compare them with the new ones being taken. If your previous mammogram was taken at another health facility, please bring them with you to your appointment. You also can arrange to have your mammograms sent directly to the facility where your exam is scheduled. Boulder Community Imaging Department, P.O. Box 9019, Boulder, Colorado 80301-9019, or to Community Medical Center, 1000 W. South Boulder Road, Lafayette, Colorado 80026 or Boulder Medical Center 2750 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80304. Appointments - Call the Boulder Community Hospital Imaging Department at 303-440-2170 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. weekdays to schedule an appointment via phone.
- Call the Boulder Medical Center Imaging Department at 303-440-3029
Qualification and Accreditation Foothills Hospital Mammography has received the designation of BREAST CENTER OF EXCELLENCE by the American College of Radiology. Boulder Community Hospital mammography is accredited by the American College of Radiology and is certified by the FDA Quality Standards Act. All of our mammography staff are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists in both mammography and radiography. All of the hospital’s radiologists are board-certified by the American College of Radiology. Return to Top
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