Mammography
What Is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast that can find cancer before it can be felt by you or your doctor. Every mammogram that requires followup is reviewed by a multidisciplinary team of experts who together plan a course of action.Talk to your doctor about your risk of breast cancer and how often you should get screened. You can schedule a screening mammogram without a doctor's order.
Connie Lehman, MD, PhDSimply put, mammography is the best way to detect breast cancer early. Breast cancer impacts so many women, their families and friends. And yet, when we find breast cancer early, it has the best chance of being cured.
Professor of radiology, Harvard Medical School
How Do I Prepare for a Mammogram?
A screening mammogram takes about 15 minutes. A diagnostic mammogram may take a bit longer.- Hygiene Products - On the day of your appointment, please do not wear any deodorant or antiperspirant, lotions or powders because they interfere with image clarity.
- Clothing - We suggest wearing a two-piece outfit such as a shirt and pants because you will be undressing from the waist up.
- Valuables - You can keep your things with you during your exam, but we suggest you leave your valuables at home so you don’t have to worry about them.
- Children - If you need to bring kids to your appointment, please bring someone to watch them in the waiting room.
Why Get a Mammogram?
Screening mammography saves lives and is covered by all insurances. Mammograms can find breast cancer early when it has the best chance of being cured. Watch these videos in English, Spanish or Portuguese and find out what happens when you come to Mass General for a screening.
Patient Resources
Use these patient resources to learn more about mammography and breast health. You can contact us if you have any questions.
Breast Tomosynthesis
Mass General pioneered breast tomosynthesis, also called 3D mammography.
Mammography FAQ
Read these frequently asked questions to get more information about mammograms.
Breast Density FAQ
We report breast density with mammogram results. Find out what it means.
Dolores' Story
Division of Breast Imaging
The Division of Breast Imaging at Mass General provides our breast imaging services in collaboration with the Avon Foundation Comprehensive Breast Evaluation Center and the Mass General Cancer Center. It is staffed by a full team of breast radiologists, breast imaging technologists, nurses and care coordinators.
Refer a Patient to Mass General Imaging
Are you a provider who wants to refer a patient to Mass General Imaging? Call our Central Scheduling Office between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Or order online.