Taking care of your health means staying on top of important screenings—and for women, mammograms are one of the most valuable. A mammogram is an important part of self-care. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that helps detect cancer early, often before it can be felt. Catching breast cancer early usually means more treatment options and better outcomes.
Guidelines vary, so it’s important to talk with your doctor about when mammograms are right for you. In general:
- Women at average risk often start yearly screenings at age 40–45.
- By age 55, some women switch to every two years.
- Women at higher risk (family history, certain genetic mutations, or past chest radiation) may need to start earlier and be screened more often.
Tips for Your Mammogram:
- Try and schedule your mammogram a week after your period
- Avoid using deodorant, powder, or lotion on the day of your exam, since these can show up on x-rays
- If you are nervous, bring a friend or family member for support or let the staff know – they are there to make you feel comfortable and answer any questions
A mammogram is a small step that makes a big difference in protecting your health. It gives you peace of mind and helps your doctor catch potential signs as early as possible. Take charge of your health today to stay well in the future. Talk with your doctor about when you should begin screening and make it part of your routine self-care.
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