Mammograms, MRIs and Breast Exams

A mammogram is a breast exam used to capture an X-ray image of problems, such as breast lumps, a breast cyst, calcifications or microcalcifications. Breast MRI is an additional breast exam tool recommended as an annual addition to mammogram for certain high risk women. Learn more about these breast exams.

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Mammogram
Diagnostic and Screening Mammograms
Expert Patient Jacki Donaldson describes what roles screening and diagnostic mammograms play in breast cancer detection and care.
How to Prepare for Your Mammogram
If it's time to schedule your first mammogram, here are suggestions on how to prepare, courtesy of the National Women's Health Information Center.

New Breast Exam Recommendations: Breast MRI
In March 2007, the American Cancer Society announced that breast MRI and mammogram, when used together, give doctors a better chance of finding breast cancer early in high-risk women, when it’s easier to treat, when survival outcomes are more hopeful. Learn more about this breast exam.
Digital Mammograms
A digital mammogram takes an electronic image of the breast and stores it directly in a computer. The digital image can be manipulated, interpreted, stored, and transmitted—all electronically. Learn more about who benefits from digital mammograms.
Digital Mammography and Breast MRI: What's Newer and Better Out There?
Mammograms are about 80 to 85 percent effective in detecting tumors, including very small ones, ones that can’t be felt during a self-exam, or even by a doctor during your physical. They’re the Ford Escort of breast cancer detection: familiar, reliable, and reasonably priced. PJ Hamels asks: Are standard film mammograms becoming a thing of the past, replaced by newer, possibly more accurate technologies?
How to Do a Mammogram for Women with Breast Implants
My sister has silicone breast implants. I am worried that when she goes for a mammogram, the pressure from the test will cause a leakage. Can you tell me more about mammography for women with implants?
Why I Get Mammograms
It had been at least three years since my last mammogram when I found the most recent lump, massaging what I thought was a sore muscle after lifting weights. I went immediately for a mammogram. Read Mary Blocksma's story.
Another Year, Another Mammogram
Once you’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer, it’s hard to look upon the annual mammogram as just another diagnostic test. Read Beth Brophy's tips on how to deal with the dread.