zaro

What not to do before a mammogram?

Published in Mammogram Preparation 2 mins read

To ensure the most accurate and clear results from your mammogram, it's important to be aware of certain things you should avoid doing before your appointment.

Key Preparations for Your Mammogram

Before undergoing a mammogram, there are two primary areas of concern to help prevent unnecessary retests or misinterpretations of the images.

1. Products to Avoid on Exam Day

On the day of your mammogram, it is crucial to avoid applying any personal care products in the breast or underarm areas. These products can interfere with the imaging process by appearing as abnormalities on the X-ray.

Why avoid them?
Some of these products contain substances, such as aluminum particles found in deodorants and antiperspirants, which can show up on the mammogram as white spots. These spots might mimic calcifications or other suspicious areas, potentially leading to a recommendation for follow-up imaging, which can cause unnecessary anxiety and additional appointments.

What to avoid:

Product Category Specifics to Avoid Where to Avoid Application
Personal Care Products Deodorant, antiperspirant, powders, lotions, creams, or perfumes Under your arms, or on or under your breasts
  • Tip: If you forget and apply any of these products, inform the technologist upon arrival. Many clinics have wipes available for you to clean the area before the exam.

2. Optimal Timing for Your Mammogram

While not a strict rule, scheduling your mammogram at a specific time in your menstrual cycle can contribute to a more comfortable experience and potentially clearer images.

  • Avoid the week just before your period: During this time, breasts can often be more tender and swollen due to hormonal changes. This can make the compression required for a mammogram more uncomfortable. Additionally, breast tissue can be denser during this phase, which might make it slightly harder to interpret the images.
  • Best time to schedule: If you are premenopausal, consider scheduling your mammogram during the week after your period ends. At this time, breasts are typically less tender and less dense.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth mammogram experience and the clearest possible diagnostic images. For more information on mammogram preparation, you can refer to reputable sources like the American Cancer Society.