When it comes to mammograms — we've heard every analogy under the sun. From "it feels like slamming my boobs in a refrigerator door" to "having the girls ran over by a tractor-trailer," mammogram euphemisms have taken on a life of their own.
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And look, we're not saying that getting your breasts compressed between two firm surfaces is a walk in the park. But mammograms save lives. Each year, more than 40,000 women die from breast cancer, a disease that's treatable when detected early.
So, step 1: please stop putting off your mammogram. At the end of the day, they're a heck of a lot better than breast cancer. And we promise they're not as bad as everyone makes them out to be.
Step 2: check out these mammogram survival tips to make your annual screenings a bit more bearable.
Scheduling matters
The American Cancer Society recommends scheduling your first mammogram at age 45 or sooner if you have a family history of breast cancer. We also suggest booking them about one week after your period, which is when your breasts are likely to be less tender.
And if you're thinking about getting the COVID vaccine, schedule your mammogram before or four weeks after your vaccine. Swollen lymph nodes are a potential vaccine side effect, resulting in a false reading. And that's not fun for anyone.
No deodorant
Prior to your appointment, remove underarm deodorant or antiperspirant. The same goes for any powders, creams, or lotions applied under your arms, chest area, and breasts.
Deodorant and other skin products can mess up the quality of the images.
Pass the salt... and coffee too
And by pass, we mean skip for about 3 to 4 days before your appointment. Salt increases your body's water retention, which can cause bloating. And caffeine can make your breasts feel more tender.
Tylenol is your friend
And other over-the-counter pain relievers too. Consider taking them about 45 to 60 minutes before your exam.
Get comfy
Wear your coziest sweats. During the appointment, you will be asked to remove your clothing and jewelry from the waist up and rock a super stylish hospital gown. And don’t forget a pair of supportive sneakers — you’ll be standing for the duration of the screening.
Communication is key
Talk with your technician. Tell them about any anxiousness you may be feeling. Be open about your pain. They'll do everything in their power to make you as comfortable as possible.
Our friends at Virtua Health, South Jersey's largest health network, offer 3D digital mammograms read and assessed by board-certified radiologists. Plus, they can help gather any previous mammogram results from other facilities!
To schedule your annual mammography in South Jersey, connect with their team here.
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