How is a screening mammogram performed?
A specially trained female radiographer will take your mammogram.
Usually two X-rays are taken of each breast; one from the side and one from the top. The whole appointment takes about 20 minutes.
Is a mammogram painful?
To obtain a clear picture and to minimise the radiation dose, the breast is positioned and compressed between two flat plates. This may be uncomfortable, but the compression lasts only a few seconds.
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Is a mammogram harmful?
The risk of getting cancer from a screening mammogram is considered very low. The benefit of early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer far outweighs the risk of the small amount of radiation received during a screening mammogram.
Related links
Useful resources to download
- Have a FREE screening mammogram – Helping you make an informed choice [PDF / 198KB]
- Fact Sheet 1 – Breast cancer and screening mammography [PDF / 122KB]
- Screening mammography for women with implants [PDF / 193KB]
- Information on access for women with disabilities [PDF / 253KB]
- Breast pain – Want to know more? [PDF / 154KB]
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