At the appointment

• A mammogram only takes a few minutes
• The whole appointment takes about fifteen minutes
• A doctor’s referral is not necessary

When you arrive at BreastScreen WA the following process will take place:

1. On arrival, you will be asked to fill in personal information. There will be consent forms for you to read and sign
2. You will be taken to a change room and be asked to remove your bra and put your top back on, or if you require, a disposable gown is available
3. Once you have changed, a female radiographer will take you into the X-ray room and ask you some questions
4. After the radiographer has explained how the mammogram is taken, the radiographer will adjust the height of the X-ray machine to match your height and shape
5. Each breast is compressed between two plates to get a clear picture of the breast tissue and to minimise the radiation dose. This may be uncomfortable, but the compression lasts only a few seconds. Two X-rays are taken of each breast: one from the side and one from the top
6. You will be asked to wait until the radiographer has checked the X-rays for technical quality
7. The radiographer will let you know when the examination is complete and you may leave
8. Your X-rays are reviewed by at least two specially trained doctors (radiologists).
9. The results of your screening mammogram will be sent (within two-three weeks) via SMS, or you may choose to receive your results via mail.  With your consent, your doctor will also receive your results
10. It is not uncommon for women to be called back for further X-rays. If this is necessary BreastScreen WA will phone to discuss this with you.