Mammogram

Earlier detection, greater accuracy,
more peace of mind

A mammogram can help find breast cancer early, often before it can be felt, when treatment is most effective. For many women, early detection can make all the difference.

What Is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a specialized, low-dose X-ray exam that captures detailed images of the breast.

Today’s mammograms are digital, and some OneImaging centers may offer 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) in addition to standard 2D imaging. A 3D mammogram captures images from multiple angles, allowing radiologists to review breast tissue layer by layer for greater detail.

Your OneImaging Care Team will help match you with the right center for your exam.

Screening vs. Diagnostic Mammograms

Screening Mammogram

Routine exam, no symptoms needed

Starts at age 40, or earlier with risk factors

Short, standard exam

Diagnostic Mammogram

Ordered to evaluate a specific concern, including a lump, pain, nipple discharge, skin changes, or potential abnormalities found on a screening mammogram.

Extra images focused on the area of concern

Often paired with a breast ultrasound

Timeline – 8 Steps

How to Prepare for
Your Mammogram

Your imaging center will send exact instructions for your exam. These are the general steps to expect.

Step 1

Set yourself up for a clear scan

Do not apply deodorant, antiperspirant, powder, perfume, lotion, or cream on your breasts or underarms.

Step 2

Use your OneImaging Card

Your OneImaging Digital Payment Card covers the full cost of your exam at check-in.

Do not present your insurance card.
Learn how to use your card here.

Step 3

Help your radiologist compare

Bring prior mammograms or arrange to have them sent if this is your first visit at a new center.

Step 4

Dress for comfort

Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to undress from the waist up during the exam.

Step 5

Give yourself extra time

Arrive 15–30 minutes early to complete paperwork and change into a gown.

Step 6

Share important details

Tell your team if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have breast implants, recent breast surgery or biopsies, or a family history of breast cancer.

Step 7

Ask for support if needed

If this is your first mammogram and you have anxiety or concerns about discomfort, let the technologist know — they can walk you through the process step by step.

What to Expect During
Your Mammogram

Knowing what happens during your mammogram can help you feel more prepared and comfortable.

Precise positioning for your scan

A technologist will position one breast at a time on a flat platform to capture clear images.

Quick compression for clear results

A clear plastic paddle will gently compress the breast for a few seconds while images are taken. This helps capture the clearest image at the lowest possible radiation dose.

Fully guided throughout

Most mammograms take 15 to 30 minutes and include 2D or 3D imaging. Your technologist will guide you through each step during the exam.

Is a Mammogram Safe?

Mammograms use a very small amount of radiation, roughly the same as the natural background radiation you receive from the environment over about 7 weeks, per the American College of Radiology.

For most women over 40, the benefit of early cancer detection far outweighs this small dose. If you are pregnant, a diagnostic mammogram may still be performed when clinically necessary, with appropriate shielding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the exam take?

Plan for 30 to 90 minutes at the center, including check-in, safety screening, and the scan itself. The entire exam takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

When should I start getting mammograms?

Most major guidelines recommend yearly screening mammograms starting at age 40. If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, a known genetic risk (BRCA1/2), or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend starting earlier and supplementing with MRI.

How will I get my results?

The imaging center will send your imaging report directly to your ordering physician. As a OneImaging member, you will also receive a copy of your report in your OneImaging account - we will notify you when your report is available.

Questions about your exam or need help scheduling your exam?

Schedule Online

Call us at (833) 619-0837

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