Your First Mammogram: Easy as 1-2-3

You’ve reached your 40th birthday, and you know what that means: it’s time for your first mammogram.

Or you’ve discovered a lump in your breast; you’re just 37 years old, but the doctor says you’d best have a mammogram.

Are you scared? Don’t be. You may have heard horror stories about “the big squeeze:” the pain of compressing your breasts way beyond the point they want to be compressed. Or you’re shy, not used to standing around half-naked while a fully clothed stranger manipulates your breasts.

Or you’re just uneasy at this new procedure in your health-care regimen.

Whatever your reluctance to have that first mammogram, I’m here to tell you: it’s not that bad. Really. I recently went for what must have been close to my 20th mammogram. No, I’m not THAT old! But since I started having mammograms at age 40 and had breast cancer at age 47, I’ve had more than the usual number of mammograms.

Considering the audience here at MyBreastCancerNetwork.com, I thought I’d bring my digital camera along to my annual mammogram, do an up close and personal—VERY personal!—photo story of what it’s like.

Mammogram: The Big Squeeze Deconstructed.

If this is a regular preventive-care mammogram, the process usually starts with a letter. You'll be given an appointment, and told where to go. Since I see my oncologist after every mammogram, I was scheduled for an appointment with him, too. You won't have to see a doctor if you're a woman who's simply having a yearly mammogram.

Here we are, in radiology. As you can see, this is where folks go to get regular X-rays and DEXA scans (to check for bone health), as well as mammograms.

Check in, and head for the waiting room.

Check out the magazines. Looks like they're all set for kids, golfers, and sports fans. Not bad, but I suggest bringing your own reading material.

When they call your name, you'll be ushered into a changing room. Nice accommodations, eh? The basket is to put your belongings in...

...while you change into this stunning outfit. You'll get naked from the waist up, then don a johnny that opens in the front, with a robe over it. Yes, you'll feel funny walking around in this "sleepwear," but don't worry; you're not going far.

Practically speaking, it's best to dress in something simple on mammogram day. Never mind the layered look; a bra and shirt are easiest.

OK, take your seat in the mammogram waiting room. Don't worry; only other women—no men—will see you in here. Oh, and notice the basket; you'll be carrying it with you to the actual mammogram room. You can see I stuck my backpack in the bucket, and it barely fit; best not to arrive for your mammogram with a huge purse, or lots to lug around.

You may be asked to fill out a survey; it's something to pass the time while you wait, and hopefully it'll improve the service (or future health) of other women in your area.