Mammogram (breast X-ray)

Testing for cancer when you have no symptoms is called screening. Breast cancer screening involves an X-ray of the breast tissue called a mammogram. A mammogram can pick up small changes when they are too small to see or feel.

The X-ray is done with you standing up. You will need to be undressed above your waist. It may be easier to wear a top with trousers or a skirt. To do the X-ray, your breast is put flat onto a metal plate and another plate is gently lowered onto your breast to flatten it out. Then the X-rays are taken. The process is repeated on the other breast.

It can be a little bit uncomfortable having your breast flattened out. Your breast may feel a bit tender for a few hours afterwards.

About 10-15 minutes.

You will be able to go home after the mammogram. The results of your mammogram will be sent to your doctor. It may take a couple of weeks for the results to be available. If you need more tests, you will be contacted by the hospital/BreastCheck with an appointment.