Your first mammogram: What to expect
What to expect at your first mammogram
October 01, 2025
Medically Reviewed | Last reviewed by on October 01, 2025
You may feel nervous about getting your first screening mammogram. After all, it¡¯s your first one, so you don¡¯t know exactly what to expect. Even women who¡¯ve had mammograms in the past may still have some anxiety before the exam.
A mammogram is an important part of breast cancer screening and is the best way to find breast cancer early, when it¡¯s easier to treat. We spoke with , clinical medical director of Breast Imaging at MD Anderson¡¯s Texas Medical Center Campus, about how to prepare for a mammogram and what to expect during and after the exam.
Key takeaways
- A mammogram appointment usually takes about 30 minutes.
- A mammogram uses low-dose X-rays to create images of breast tissue. The amount of radiation used is not harmful.
- A mammogram is the best way to find breast cancer early, when it¡¯s easier to treat.
Who needs a mammogram?
A mammogram uses low-dose X-rays to create images of breast tissue. It detects lumps that are too small to feel by hand.
MD Anderson recommends that women at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every year beginning at age 40. Women with a higher risk of breast cancer should speak with their doctor to find out when they should start having mammograms.
How to prepare for your mammogram
Use these tips to make your experience more comfortable:
- Schedule your mammogram after you have your period. If you haven¡¯t started menopause, schedule your mammogram for the week after your menstrual period. This is when your breasts are usually less tender.
- Skip the hygiene products. You can¡¯t wear deodorant, powder, perfume, lotion or ointment around the chest area before your appointment. If you apply any of these items, they may show up as artifacts on the X-rays. These could be mistaken for a potentially significant finding.
- Wear a two-piece outfit. This way, you only have to remove your top. The person doing your mammogram will give you a gown or robe to wear.
- Do not wear jewelry. You will need to remove jewelry like necklaces before your mammogram, so that they don¡¯t interfere with the imaging. You may find it easier to leave any jewelry at home.
- Bring your doctor¡¯s information to the appointment. Some mammogram facilities do not require a referral from your doctor to schedule a mammogram. But if your doctor ordered the mammogram, be sure to have their name, address and phone number. Afterward, the facility will send your doctor the mammogram results.
How long does a mammogram take?
The entire mammogram appointment takes about 30 minutes. When you arrive, you¡¯ll check in and then go to a private area to change into your robe. The mammography technologist will ask you questions about your medical history, such as whether you¡¯ve ever had any surgeries or biopsies. This helps the technologist to know what to look for and ensures you get the right type of exam.
During the mammogram, the technologist will position each of your breasts in a mammography machine, one at a time. Each breast will be compressed for only 20 to 30 seconds for each view. We typically do two views during a screening mammogram.
Is a mammogram painful?
The compression of the breasts can be uncomfortable, but it¡¯s not for very long.
Compression is important because it allows the breast tissue to spread and flatten. This ensures a clear view of the breast and reduces the amount of radiation needed to make an image.
Are mammograms safe?
Yes, mammograms are very safe. An annual screening mammogram uses a very low dose of radiation.
How long will it take to get my results?
A radiologist will review your mammogram and send your doctor a report. If you get your mammogram at MD Anderson, you can expect to see your results in MyChart within 48 to 72 hours.
Most findings are not cancer
It¡¯s common to get results stating that you need additional imaging after your first mammogram. That¡¯s often because your doctor doesn¡¯t have previous mammogram images for comparison.
The additional imaging you need may be another mammogram (diagnostic mammogram) and/or a breast ultrasound to evaluate a particular finding. Keep in mind that the need for additional imaging does not mean you have cancer. The finding may just be due to cysts, dense breast tissue or the result of an unclear image.
Your breasts are made up of fatty and glandular tissue. If you have dense breasts, that means you have more glandular breast tissue. This can make it harder to spot breast cancer on a screening mammogram.
Breast cysts are fluid-filled sacs that may show up on your screening mammogram. They are not cancerous and do not increase your risk for developing cancer.
Be sure to save your mammogram results and take them to your doctor to review after each mammogram. And don¡¯t put off your mammogram. Regular breast cancer screening can help us detect breast cancer early when the chances for successful treatment are highest.
or call 1-844-240-7092.
Mammograms are very safe.
Miral Patel, M.D.
Physician