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Women's Services: FAQs

Understanding Your Mammogram Report

Why is the report sent to me?

Federal regulations now require that written mammography reports must be sent to the patient by the interpreting physician within 30 days of the mammogram. A report of your mammogram will also be sent to your physician.

What will the report tell me?

Most women will receive a report telling them that their mammogram was normal. If any irregularities are detected in your mammogram, your report will tell you what your next step should be.

Don’t panic! Most irregularities turn out to be nothing to be concerned about.

If my mammogram was normal, do I still need to have mammograms done in the future?

In a word, YES! It is wonderful news that your mammogram is normal, but please remember that in order to maintain good breast health, it is essential to continue having routine mammograms, at least once each year.

Our motto is: We’ll see you again…. Same time, next year!

What if my mammogram was not normal?

Don’t panic! Your report may say that your mammogram showed an area that is believed to be benign (not cancerous), but that a six month follow-up mammogram should be done to confirm that there is no change.

Is there any chance I may need other types of testing after my mammogram?

A small percentage of women will receive a report saying that the mammogram showed an abnormality and that additional testing is needed to clarify the findings. The additional tests may be a more detailed (diagnostic) mammogram or an ultrasound of the breast, or both. In most cases, follow-up testing proves there is nothing to be concerned about. However, if follow-up testing is recommended, it is important to contact your physician immediately to set up your additional tests.

Is there any chance I may need other types of testing after my mammogram?

A small percentage of women will receive a report saying that the mammogram showed an abnormality and that additional testing is needed to clarify the findings. The additional tests may be a more detailed (diagnostic) mammogram or an ultrasound of the breast, or both. In most cases, follow-up testing proves there is nothing to be concerned about. However, if follow-up testing is recommended, it is important to contact your physician immediately to set up your additional tests.

The four commandments of good breast health.

While mammography is the most accurate method for early detection, not all cancers are found through mammography. For that reason, it is of the utmost importance to remember the following:

  • Perform a breast self-exam every month.
  • If warning signs appear, such as pain, a lump you can feel, or nipple discharge, see your physician immediately.
  • Talk with your physicians about ways to reduce your risk.
  • Set a schedule of regular, yearly mammograms.

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