Frequently Asked Questions About Mammograms

Don’t let questions about getting a mammogram keep you from getting this important annual screening for breast cancer.

How likely is breast cancer if I have no known family history?  About 75 percent of breast cancers are found in people with no family history of the disease.

I perform monthly breast self-exams and I have not noticed any changes. Do I still need a mammogram? Breast self-exams can increase your chances of early detection and treatment, but some abnormalities are too small for you to feel them by hand. Microcalcifications only show up on mammograms; you can’t feel them. With the latest developments in digital imaging technology, images can be enhanced and magnified, which allows breast masses to be identified more easily than with traditional physical breast exams. The vast majority of calcifications are benign, but they can also be a warning sign of early breast cancer.

I am only in my 40s. Aren’t mammograms for when I am older?  If you’re 40 and over, the American College of Radiology recommends you get a mammogram every year. If you’re younger than 40, talk to your doctor about when to have your first screening. Your doctor may recommend that you begin screening earlier if you have a family history of breast cancer or have new breast problems.

Does it hurt?  With the recent transition to digital mammography, exams are faster than in the past. In addition, newly designed pedals flex with your body contours and movements, and pressure is applied only when necessary. The benefits of early detection far outweigh the momentary discomfort.

What does a mammogram cost?  Most companies cover the cost of screening mammography independent of any deductible you may have with no out of pocket expense for you. If your insurance doesn’t cover your exam or you are uninsured, talk to the Breast Health and Imaging Center, which may be able to connect you with a program to help cover the test.

How long does a mammogram take? Start to finish, your mammogram appointment should take no more than 30 minutes. The exam itself takes only about 5 minutes.

Do mammograms cause cancer?  Digital mammography uses small, safe doses of radiation to perform mammograms. The chances of getting cancer from a mammogram are very small. Digital mammography uses the smallest possible amount of radiation required to deliver a clear and detailed exam image. Consequently, mammograms are now safer than they have ever been.

Do mammograms catch all breast cancers?  Mammograms can miss cancer. No screening catches 100 percent of illnesses. Of 1,000 people screened in their 40s, one cancer will be missed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26756737/ Annual mammograms decrease the likelihood cancer will be missed during subsequent screenings.

What if they find something?  While fears of finding cancer are understandable, postponing screenings is not advisable. Of 1,000 people having a screening mammogram in their 40s, 875 will have normal results, and 125 will receive an abnormal result and need additional tests.  At the end of the additional testing—like additional mammograms, breast ultrasounds, or breast biopsies—only four people will be found to have cancer or pre-cancer. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26756737/  When screened regularly, it is more likely any cancer found in your breast will be smaller which likely means that can be treated more easily with less disruption to your daily lives.

How do I get an appointment?  Those who need a mammogram must have a referral for the exam from their primary care provider, OB-GYN provider or Certified Nurse Midwife. Once you have a referral, you may schedule your imaging appointment by calling Community Wide Scheduling at (802) 447-5541 option 2. 

I don’t have a doctor. How do I find one?  Call the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center Find-a-Doctor Line at 802-447-5007. Or visit svhealthcare.org/physician-directory for a complete list of physicians.