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Women’s imaging
Mammography
Screening & Diagnostic Mammography
Screening and diagnostic breast imaging in a private, unhurried setting.
Typical visit
20–30 min
Preparation
Skip deodorant
Ionising radiation
Low dose
Overview
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast. Screening mammograms look for changes before symptoms appear; diagnostic mammograms investigate a specific concern.
Each breast is gently compressed for a few seconds to spread the tissue and keep the image sharp.
Commonly used for
Routine screening
Investigating a lump or symptom
Follow-up imaging
Comparison with previous mammograms
What to expect
Private suite. You change in a private room and wear a gown open at the front.
Positioning. A radiographer positions each breast and applies compression for a few seconds per view.
Images. Usually two views of each breast are taken. Extra views are sometimes needed — this is common.
Afterwards. You can dress and leave. Results are reported to your clinician.
Preparation
Before your visit
Avoid deodorant, powder and lotion on the day
Wear a two-piece outfit
Bring previous mammograms or tell us where they were taken
If your breasts are tender before a period, consider booking another week
Before your mammogram
Common questions
Does it hurt?
Compression can be uncomfortable but lasts only a few seconds. Tell the radiographer — they can adjust.
Why was I called back?
Recalls for extra views are common and most do not show cancer. Your clinician will explain the next step.
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