A screening mammogram involves looking for the early signs of breast cancer on a set of breast x-rays.

When you are ready, the radiographer who takes the x-rays will ask you about any breast problems or previous breast surgery you may have had. The radiographer will then explain the procedure and position each of your breasts in turn between two flat plates on the x-ray machine. To get the clearest possible picture, the machine briefly compresses the breasts between the plates. Two views are taken of each breast, one from above and one from the side.

The compression of the breasts for the x-ray usually takes only a few seconds. During the mammogram, brief discomfort may be felt for a few seconds while the breast is being compressed. Compression of the breast is necessary so that more of the breast tissue and any changes can be seen more clearly. Most women who have mammograms with Breastscreen NSW report that their mammogram was not painful. You can ask the radiographer to stop at any time during your screening mammogram. The whole visit usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes.


For any further questions about breast cancer and the screening process, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions section.