A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breasts. It is used to find tumors and to help tell the difference between non-cancerous (benign) and cancerous (malignant) disease.

You will be asked to undress from the waist up and will be given a gown to wear. Depending on the type of equipment used, you will sit or stand.

One breast at a time is rested on a flat surface that contains the x-ray plate. A device called a compressor will be pressed firmly against the breast to help flatten out the breast tissue.

The x-ray pictures are taken from several angles. You may be asked to hold your breath as each picture is taken.

Digital mammography is a recent technique that allows the x-ray image of the breast to be viewed and manipulated on a computer screen. It improves accuracy a little bit, but is not yet performed everywhere.

Do not wear deodorant, perfume, powders, or ointments under the arms or on the breasts on the day of the mammogram. These substances may obscure the images. Remove all jewelry from your neck and chest area.

Notify your health care provider and the radiologist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

When the breast is compressed, there may be some discomfort.