My husband and I are planning to conceive in this cycle and have scheduled a mammogram. Does mammography somehow affect the conception or the fetus? Won't it hurt?

ANSWERED: 04/19/2016

Hello Maria. Before refusing an x-ray, you should carefully weigh the potential risk to the baby and the benefit to the mother. When planning a pregnancy, it is important to restore your health and contact all specialists as early as possible.

ANSWERED: 04/24/2016 Maksimov Alexey Vasilievich Moscow 0.0 surgeon, doctor-maximov.ru

Hello, Mammography is only dangerous if you are already pregnant.

Related questions:

Indications for the study

As a clinical diagnosis, mammography is indicated for women over 40, which is associated with an increasing risk of oncological processes against the background of age-related changes in breast tissue in patients of this age.

Usually, after 40, adipose tissue quantitatively predominates over mammary glandular cells, so an x-ray can take a fairly clear and informative picture that clearly displays an accurate picture of the condition of the breast.

The procedure can be performed for absolute indications or for preventive purposes. According to indications, mammography is prescribed:

1. For painful sensations in the chest of unknown etiology;
2. When palpable lumps and bumps appear, detected by a doctor or during self-examination;
3. Noticeable changes in the shape of the breast, differences between the right and left breasts;
4. If strange discharge from the nipple appears that is not associated with lactation, an urgent extensive examination with mammography is required;
5. If, due to age-related hormonal changes, breast engorgement is observed;
6. Redness of the nipples or changes in their shape;
7. Preoperative examination or to assess the effectiveness of already performed surgical or conservative treatment, for example, chemotherapy or radiation therapy;
8. For monitoring during hormonal treatment.

For any of the indications, the appointment of the study is the responsibility of the treating specialist, even if the procedure is performed for preventive purposes. Such a measure is of key importance in the early detection of malignant mammary tumors.

The video shows how a mammogram of the mammary glands is done:

To conduct screening among the female half of the population, there is a special schedule for mammography:

• The first diagnosis is carried out at the age of 40;
• In the 40-50-year period, the study is carried out once every 2 years; if the patient has a genetic predisposition to mammary glandular oncology, then mammography is prescribed annually;
• Once you reach age 50, you should have a mammogram every year.

Contraindications

In fact, the mammography procedure is an X-ray examination that involves minor radiation exposure, and therefore its contraindications are similar to X-rays:

1. Lactation;
2. Pregnancy;
3. Damage to the skin on the chest;
4. Damage to the nipples;
5. Breast implants;
6. Age under 35 (relative contraindication);
7. Within six months after termination of pregnancy (decided by the doctor).

What does mammography show?

Mammographic diagnostics makes it possible to detect formations and pathological processes of a benign or malignant nature at the initial stages of formation.

The study shows the changes that have occurred in the mammary glandular structures, their prevalence, specific localization, parameters, etc.

Mammography shows the presence of:

• Calcinates. Usually, minor accumulations of calcium salts in the mammary glandular tissues indicate the beginning of cancer processes. Large salt formations, as a rule, have nothing to do with oncology. Although the presence of mammary glandular calcifications may be associated with an existing oncological process;
• . Characteristic of young patients, they are exclusively benign, but have a tendency to grow uncontrolled;
• Cyst. These cavity-filled formations are found quite often in mammary glandular structures. However, with the help of mammography it is not always possible to distinguish cancer from a breast cyst, so additional examination is necessary.

If a patient contacts a mammologist with complaints of pain or discomfort in one breast, the examination will be carried out on both mammary glands. Such a measure is necessary to obtain comparative images that will help assess the extent of changes that have occurred.

If mammography has already been performed previously and the images have been preserved, they must be provided to the doctor.

Species

There are several variations of mammography: digital, film (X-ray), electrical impedance, magnetic resonance, etc.

Digital mammography photo

1. Traditional X-ray diagnostics is the oldest technique that uses film technology. Such a study is a classic in mammary gland diagnosis, since it has been used since the last century. The technique is almost never used in modern medical institutions, although it is still used in regional hospitals. The procedure is not a priority in comparison with other mammography methods, since it has the highest percentage of errors in the results.
2. refers to more modern diagnostic methods that have a large number of undeniable advantages. For example, the radiation dosage received during digital examination is significantly lower than during film examination (three times). The quality of the resulting images is also much higher, and they are much easier to analyze, which simplifies the reliability of the diagnosis and also eliminates the need for repeated examination. In addition, digital mammography can be performed using computer technology to detect structural changes in mammary tissue.
3. Magnetic resonance Mammography is performed without x-rays. This technique is characterized by maximum accuracy and high information content, but it also has the disadvantage of high cost. If necessary, to obtain a more complete clinical picture, MRI mammography is performed using contrast.
4. Electrical impedance Mammographic diagnosis is the latest method for studying mammary glandular structures, based on differences in current conductivity between pathologically altered and healthy tissues. The electrical conductivity of unhealthy areas differs significantly from normal values, therefore, in a three-dimensional projection of the study results, tumor formation will be clearly visible. This method is more informative, does not use X-rays, has no contraindications and is not tied to the cycle, and is able to detect breast cancer in its infancy.

Preparation and progress of the study

On the day when a mammogram is scheduled, you should not use breast cosmetics, deodorants, or perfumes. The study takes place on an outpatient basis.

The subject undresses to the waist and places her breasts on a specialized platform. Special holders compress the breasts, which is necessary for clearer visualization. Then the woman needs to freeze for the camera to take a photo. Then the woman is usually asked to change her position and freeze again in order to get a picture in a different projection.

Each breast is examined separately during the diagnosis, and the entire procedure takes no more than half an hour.

Breast compression is an important necessity and may cause some discomfort to the patient. If necessary, the specialist takes several targeted photographs for each projection.

And some modern tomographs can, during the research process, take biomaterial from mammary glandular tissues for its further histological study.

Is it harmful to do the procedure?

Considering that mammography involves the patient receiving a dose of radiation, the conclusion suggests itself that this study is harmful.

During such a diagnosis, a woman is exposed to radiation at a dosage of 0.1-0.2 Rad. This volume of radiation is considered by doctors to be insignificant and safe, it is even less than with traditional fluorography. However, the likelihood of developing tumors after such radiation still remains.

According to statistics, 1 out of 200 thousand patients has a high risk of developing a malignant tumor in the breast, provided that the procedure was one-time. If mammography is performed more than once, then the risks increase markedly.

But there is no need to refuse the study out of fear of a possible complication, because modern digital mammographs practically eliminate possible risks of oncology. In addition, there are mammography methods that do not use X-rays during diagnosis, for example, electrical impedance mammography, which is prescribed even to pregnant women.

Mammography today is the best way to detect breast cancer, although, unfortunately, it does not detect every type of cancer and in isolated cases can give a false positive result.

On what day of the cycle should the examination be done?

The choice of day relative to the period for mammography is of no small importance.

Experts are inclined to believe that the most optimal time for mammographic breast examination is days 5-12 of the cycle, because it is on these days that the results are most informative.

In addition, during this period of time, a woman’s mammary glands are in a relatively calm state, they are painless and not enlarged.

In addition, performing a mammogram during this period will relieve the patient of unnecessary discomfort associated with breast tenderness caused by hormonal changes in various phases of the cycle, especially in its middle.

Decoding the results

There is a generally accepted standard for interpreting mammography results:

• Category 0– incomplete assessment, when the results for a number of reasons were inconclusive and insufficient to determine the diagnosis;
• Category 1– negative, when the woman is completely healthy and does not have any abnormalities in the breast tissue;
• Category 2– benign formation, refers to negative results, because cancer, like other malignant processes, was not detected;
• Category 3– a benign formation has been identified that requires additional research. In fact, the detected tumor is probably benign, but a repeat mammogram is still needed after 6 months;
• Category 4– the tumor is suspicious, so a biopsy is required to determine the exact nature of the formation. The likelihood of cancer is low and the prognosis is positive;
• Category 5– a suspicious tumor with a high probability of cancer has been identified, so a biopsy is also necessary;
• Category 6– Biopsy-confirmed breast cancer.

When interpreting mammography, a specialist takes into account not only the data in the image, but also the patient’s medical history and previously present pathological manifestations. During the deciphering process, the condition of glandular structures, ducts and vessels, as well as lymph nodes is carefully analyzed.

Normally, the images do not show any compaction or darkening, and the tissues look uniform. Ducts and vessels intertwined into a whole network, as well as non-enlarged lymph nodes, are clearly visible.

If any pathological process occurs, then:

• There is an increase in lymph nodes of regional significance;
• The healthy and uniform structure of the glandular tissues of the breast is disrupted;
• One or more foci of the pathological process are visible;
• When fibroadenomatous and cystic formations are detected, oval or round, clearly defined areas are clearly visible on the image;
• If the patient has cancer, then in the picture it looks like a light, blurry spot with uneven borders.

In any case, an experienced mammologist should interpret and decipher the results.

What is the difference and what is better? Mammography or ultrasound of the mammary glands?

Ultrasound and mammography diagnostics of the breast have many differences associated with both advantages and disadvantages of diagnosis.

• Ultrasound is carried out on the principle of ultrasonic influence on tissue, and mammography is carried out using x-rays.
• Ultrasound can be performed at any age, but mammography can only be done after 40.
• In terms of information content, mammography has higher rates of 90-95% detection of the pathological process. False positive results with this diagnosis occur in 26% of cases, while ultrasound produces similar results in 66%.

It is impossible to say unequivocally which method is better. For young patients, it is preferable to do an ultrasound examination; it is safer because it does not involve radiation. However, for patients over 40, mammography is preferable, since this technique is more informative.

Therefore, when prescribing diagnostic breast examinations, specialists take into account many factors.

Frequently asked questions

• How often should I get a mammogram after 40?

Patients over 40 are recommended to undergo mammographic examinations every two years, and after 50 – annually. Although in some cases, for example, when a woman is at risk for breast cancer, the study is carried out annually, and after 50 - twice a year.

• At what age do mammograms begin?

The first mammogram is usually performed at age 40. In a younger patient, such diagnostics are not recommended due to radiation exposure.

• How many times a year can you have a mammogram?

Mammography, if indicated, for example, to monitor treatment or educational behavior, can be done no more than once every six months.

• Can mammography be wrong?

According to statistics, false positive results with mammography occur, so it cannot be said that the method provides a 100% diagnostic result. In addition, the mammograph may not notice and miss about 15% of formations.

• Is it possible to have a mammogram during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a categorical contraindication for mammographic breast examination.

In modern medicine, breast cancer is a common diagnosis, more common in women of reproductive age. If not treated promptly, the patient may die; In addition, over the last decade there has been an extremely unpleasant trend towards the “youth” of this diagnosis. If previously women from 45 years of age were ill, now the age of patients starts from 35 years. To diagnose a characteristic disease, the attending physician recommends mammography followed by surgical or conservative treatment.

What is mammography

This is an entire section of medical diagnostics devoted to x-ray examination of the mammary glands in order to identify pathological processes at different stages. In this way, it is possible to identify tumors of a benign or malignant nature and speed up the final diagnosis. Additionally, to clarify the clinical picture, the doctor prescribes an ultrasound of the mammary glands, and both non-invasive procedures are absolutely painless and do not require prior hospitalization or a rehabilitation period.

The mammograph image clearly visualizes connective and glandular tissues, vessels and ducts. If they contain foci of pathology, their size, location, shape, and structural features can be reliably determined. This non-invasive examination method has a lot of significant advantages, including:

• speed, high efficiency;
• reliability of the results obtained;
• no contraindications or side effects;
• no need for hospitalization or subsequent rehabilitation;
• minimum dose of ionizing radiation.

Indications for the study

Mammography is performed for the purpose of further treatment and prevention. In the latter case, women aged 40 years and older should undergo a clinical examination once a year. This is due to the increased risk of developing oncological processes against the background of age-related changes in breast tissue, and a genetic predisposition to oncology. Such a safe diagnostic method for the purpose of further therapy is recommended in the clinical pictures presented below strictly for medical reasons:

• acute chest pain of unknown etiology;
• discharge from the nipples not associated with lactation;
• lumps, lumps and inflamed nodes in the chest, palpable;
• deformation, asymmetry of one or both mammary glands;
• engorgement of the mammary glands, hormonal disorders;
• pathological enlargement of lymph nodes located next to the mammary glands;
• preoperative examination;
• progressive cancerophobia;
• during hormonal therapy;
• during the rehabilitation period to monitor positive dynamics.

If we talk about specific diagnoses in the female body, mammography is prescribed if:

• mastodynia;
• mastopathy;
• breast cancer

When prescribing such a clinical examination, the doctor takes into account the patient’s age, for example, the first mammogram can be done at 40 years old, and until this point regularly (1-2 times a year) undergo ultrasound of the mammary glands in order to identify tumors of different origins and other foci of pathology. If progressive oncology is suspected, a biopsy and other laboratory tests are additionally prescribed

What does breast mammography show?

The special device with which this clinical examination is carried out is officially called a mammograph. In this way, benign and malignant tumors can be visualized on the screen, and other abnormal changes in the structure of the mammary glands can be detected. It is possible to identify other pathological processes, including:

• calcifications in mammary glandular tissues (a clear sign of oncology);
• fibroadenoma (benign tumor prone to rapid growth);
• cysts (cavity formations containing a certain substance);
• the need to clarify ultrasound results.

If there are purulent contents and other prerequisites for oncology, the patient must necessarily take biological material for a biopsy. Additionally, to clarify a specific disease, the attending physician will refer you for a CT scan, MRI, laboratory tests of blood and urine, and a visual examination using palpation of the suspected focus of pathology.

Species

Mammography is an informative diagnostic method that is used to identify pathological changes in the mammary glands, and is carried out in a hospital setting. In modern medicine, there are several variations of an extensive mammographic examination:

1. Traditional X-ray diagnostics. It is carried out with the participation of film technologies and is a “morally outdated” technique. Provides a high risk of error, so it is used extremely rarely. Among the advantages are an affordable price and a large selection of specialists.
2. Digital. This is a modern technique for studying the structure of the mammary glands with minimal effects of radiation on the female body. It is considered the main tool in population screening studies. To clarify the diagnosis, computer technologies are additionally used to detect structural changes in mammary glandular tissue. Disadvantages: the procedure is expensive and is not carried out in all medical centers.
3. Magnetic resonance. X-ray radiation is completely absent, and diagnostics are carried out with high accuracy and information content with or without the use of a contrast agent. The main disadvantage of such an examination is the high cost of the procedure and the lack of competent specialists.
4. Electrical impedance. This is the most advanced method of clinical examination, which is based on the difference in current conductivity between cancer and healthy tissues. It is carried out in a hospital. The main advantages are safety and information content, the disadvantage is the high price.
5. Panoramic. To identify tumors of various origins, mastopathy, cysts and other malignant pathologies, X-rays are actively used during diagnosis. X-rays of the breast are taken in two projections, and the area of ​​the mammary glands, collarbone, and armpits is visualized.
6. Ultrasonic. The diagnostic session is carried out with the participation of an ultrasound device, carried out in conjunction with an x-ray examination to clarify the prevailing clinical picture. Mammography is safe and is prescribed even to women under 40 years of age. Disadvantages include the high cost of a session and the lack of competent specialists. Advantages: Possibility of use during pregnancy and lactation.
7. Optical. The diagnosis is based on red laser radiation, and images are taken in two projections. Such an examination is allowed to be carried out starting from the age of 30, it helps to identify benign and malignant neoplasms. Necessary for dynamic monitoring of the tumor and its pathogenic growth. Such diagnostics are not carried out often and are expensive.
8. Radiothermometric. It is based on sudden changes in temperature, which can be observed and controlled using a special apparatus. An increase in temperature indicates the presence of cancer cells and the course of the oncological process. Cells with a lower temperature are considered healthy. This way, foci of pathology are visualized, their shape, size, and structural features can be determined. The disadvantage of the method is its high cost.

The final choice depends on the medical indications and age of the individual patient. It is important to consider the cost of the procedure, since prices vary and are not affordable for all patients. If a woman over 40 years of age is registered with a gynecologist for fibrocystic mastopathy, for example, then she regularly receives a referral for this medical examination at a specialized medical center.

When to do it

Mammography is recommended for women starting at age 40. It is recommended to perform this clinical examination once every 2 years until the age of 50, then once a year. Such annual diagnostics for women over 50 years of age helps to identify cancer cells in a timely manner and ensure positive dynamics of the underlying disease. If a lymph node in the breast area suddenly becomes inflamed, or there is a suspicious feeling of discomfort in the chest, mammography or ultrasound is performed unscheduled, strictly on the recommendation of the attending physician.

Preparation

Since exposure to ionizing radiation has a detrimental effect on a woman’s health, it is important to take the upcoming procedure with special responsibility and follow all preparatory measures and specialist recommendations. Only in this case the image obtained on the screen has a minimal error, which is informative for making a final diagnosis. Here's what preparation we're talking about:

1. 2–3 days before the upcoming examination, it is prohibited to drink coffee, strong black tea and energy drinks. It is important to completely abstain from alcoholic drinks, bitter and spicy foods, and wait for the examination.
2. Clothes for going to the clinic should be comfortable and comfortable, while it is important to exclude tight-fitting sweatshirts and synthetic materials for their tailoring. The same applies to underwear.
3. On the eve of mammography, it is advisable to completely stop using body cosmetics, perfumes, and deodorants.
4. Before going to the clinic, it is recommended to take a contrast shower, wash off cosmetics, and cleanse the mammary glands.
5. Before the start of the session, you must remove all chains and other decorations from the décolleté area and pick up long hair in a braid.
6. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and does not require prior hospitalization or subsequent rehabilitation.

How to do a mammogram

The optimal period for performing mammography is considered to be 5–12 days of the menstrual cycle. At this time, the examination result is as truthful as possible and is reasoned for making a final diagnosis. If this is a primary diagnosis, here is how it is carried out in a hospital setting:

1. The procedure is carried out in a special room where the mammograph is located. The recommended patient position is sitting or standing.
2. During the session, the patient is required to completely undress to the waist, place the breast being examined on a special platform, where it will be compressed with special discs.
3. It is necessary to wear a lead apron on the stomach to protect the woman’s genitals from extremely unwanted radiation.
4. Then, using a tomograph, a special image is taken, which is as informative as possible for the attending physician in order to determine an intensive care regimen.
5. The procedure is accompanied by general discomfort and causes unpleasant sensations when squeezed, but helps to reliably determine the presence of a pathological process.
6. Mammography is carried out separately for each gland - one at a time, possibly in several planes - straight, lateral and oblique.
7. After the procedure is completed, the discs of the special apparatus relax and the woman can get dressed. This completes the diagnostics.

The first procedure must be performed for the first time at 40 years of age. The resulting image of a healthy body is the basis. In the future, the woman should bring it to the next diagnosis so that the attending physician (diagnostician) can clearly see whether there are pathological changes in the structure of the mammary glands. It is important to store all images and have them with you at each mammogram.

Decoding

Breast mammography is an informative diagnostic method, based on the results of which the doctor confirms or denies the presence of an oncological process. In modern medicine, a generally accepted standard for deciphering results is presented, the features of which are presented below:

1. Category 0. The results obtained are considered insufficient to determine the final diagnosis.
2. Category 1. Pathological abnormalities in the structure of breast tissue are completely absent, the woman is healthy.
3. Category 2. The diagnosed tumor is benign in nature, the presence of cancer cells is excluded.
4. Category 3. The neoplasm is benign, but a repeat mammogram is necessary after 6 months.
5. Category 4: The risk of cancer is low but present. Therefore, the attending physician recommends a mandatory biopsy and histology.
6. Category 5. The likelihood of cancer is high; a more extensive examination is required with the mandatory participation of a biopsy.
7. Category 6. This is an already diagnosed breast cancer that requires immediate surgery.

The result obtained becomes decisive for the doctor to make a final diagnosis. If certain doubts arise, the diagnosis should be comprehensive and include laboratory tests of biological fluids of the body. In category 6, surgery is required followed by a course of chemotherapy.

Mammography during pregnancy

When carrying a fetus, such a clinical examination is not prohibited throughout the entire obstetric period, but it is prescribed if the benefit to the mother outweighs the potential threat to intrauterine development, strictly on the recommendation of a specialist. The dosage of the radiation received is minimal, so potential embryo mutations are excluded. Mammography is necessary if there is a suspicion of a tumor in the breast, which is already palpable by palpation and raises serious concerns for the health of the pregnant woman.

The problem is different: the result of mammography may turn out to be false, since in a woman’s body during pregnancy the hormonal levels radically change, systemic blood flow increases, and the appearance of other biological fluids is observed. In addition, mammography causes internal discomfort during the session and is not recommended during breastfeeding. There is an internal fear for the child, so the expectant mother will have to prepare herself mentally for the session. Otherwise, there are completely no negative consequences for the female body.

Can it be done during menstruation?

Such an extensive analysis, or rather a non-invasive diagnostic method, is allowed to be carried out during planned menstruation, but during this period the result obtained will be uninformative, false, and will not help make a final diagnosis. In order for mammography results to be as reliable as possible, the optimal time for clinical diagnosis is considered to be days 5–12 of the menstrual cycle.

In subsequent weeks, it is better to refuse the examination, since you will still have to go for a repeat one, according to the specified time interval. Additionally, an ultrasound or MRI may be required on the recommendation of the attending physician. Here are the changes that occur in the mammary gland during this period:

• Days 1 – 13 of the menstrual cycle. Follicular phase of the ovaries with increased production of estrogen. As a result, a gradual increase in the number of glands and connective tissue;
• 14 – 16 days of the menstrual cycle. The maximum level of estrogen, the period of ovulation, when suspicious multifollicular cysts can form in the female body;
• 17 – 28 days of the menstrual cycle. The luteinizing phase predominates, when the hormone progesterone dominates, increasing blood circulation in the mammary glands.

Having received such a characteristic of each phase of the menstrual cycle, we can make an objective conclusion that the optimal period for the upcoming examination is the 7th – 12th day of the menstrual cycle. At this time, there is no increased swelling of the gland and no pain when squeezing the chest with special discs for further examination using a tomograph.

Is mammography harmful?

The radiation dose during X-ray mammography does not exceed 0.4 mSv. Such a clinical examination does not cause significant harm to the patient’s health, since the exposure dose of radiation is minimal. Mammography has a lot of significant advantages; there are practically no negative aspects. It is undesirable to resort to such an examination during pregnancy and lactation, but doctors do not stipulate any absolute contraindications.

Contraindications

When studying the structure of the mammary glands, false-positive results cannot be ruled out, to confirm which it is necessary to undergo additional tests and perform a biopsy. This procedure is not performed if there are visible damage to the skin of the breast, and the patient is young and under 40 years of age. Diagnosis of nodular compactions and tumors by mammography is not recommended in the following clinical situations:

• periods of pregnancy, lactation;
• high threshold of pain sensitivity;
• six months post-abortion period;
• the presence of implants, prostheses in the chest or adjacent areas.

Price

If the size of the lump in the breast gradually increases and the patient’s general condition worsens, it is necessary to urgently contact a mammologist and perform a mammogram. In this way, it is possible to identify oncology of any degree, and promptly begin intensive therapy using conservative or surgical methods. Such diagnostics are carried out in specialized medical centers, private clinics, and are made part of the program of services provided. If the patient is not at risk of breast cancer, the procedure is paid. Below are prices for Moscow and the region:

Video

Mammography is considered a fairly accurate examination of breast tissue for women over 40 years of age. It is carried out for the purpose of cancer prevention and early detection of benign and malignant tumors or other breast pathologies. Since this method is a type of x-ray and the woman receives a dose of radioactive radiation, the question arises whether mammography is necessary during pregnancy.

X-ray examinations during pregnancy are undesirable, especially in the early stages, since even small doses of radioactive radiation can affect the development of the fetus and are allowed only in exceptional cases.

For preventive purposes, mammography is not performed on pregnant women, since pregnancy comes first on the list of contraindications for this examination and is allowed to be performed only after the mother stops breastfeeding. For women who have not yet reached 40 years of age, mammography is considered ineffective and is used in parallel with other diagnostic methods.

In some cases, examinations using mammography are necessary, for example, for any unpleasant and painful symptoms, when a woman already has any health problems and is at risk, or when diagnosis by other methods is difficult and does not provide a complete picture of pathological changes in the tissues of the mammary glands .

The advantage of this method over others is that when deciphering, you can clearly see tumors on a mammogram, cysts and calcifications in the mammary gland and identify them. In addition, there is the possibility of additional studies, such as a puncture biopsy. But only a doctor can assess the situation and decide whether a mammogram can be done on a pregnant woman. In most cases, fluoroscopic examination can be replaced by ultrasound, which is performed at any age and is considered safe.

Indications and contraindications

There are indications and contraindications for this procedure. A doctor may refer a pregnant woman for a mammogram if she:

• already has cancer and it is necessary to monitor the course of the disease;
• there is a suspicion of cancer;
• other studies leave doubts about the accuracy of the diagnosis.

Particular attention is paid to women who are at risk and require constant monitoring. It includes women who:

• have benign breast tumors;
• with a hereditary predisposition to cancer;
• with chronic gynecological diseases;
• overweight;
• with diseases of the pancreas and thyroid gland;
• after surgery on the mammary gland - for medical reasons or for cosmetic purposes.

Pregnancy itself is a contraindication, so here you need to proceed from what can cause more harm - mammography or a health problem.

How to prepare for this examination

Many women are interested in the question of how to prepare for this study correctly. Rules for preparing for the examination:

1. Before mammography, it is not recommended to use perfumes and deodorants; it is necessary to avoid getting the cream on the skin.
2. For several days, eliminate strong tea, coffee and energy drinks.
3. Jewelry must be removed before the examination.
4. If mammography has been performed before, then it is worth taking the existing results with you for comparison and further analysis.
5. You should tell your doctor about breast surgery, if you have had any.

How is mammography done?

The procedure is carried out in a specially equipped room with a mammograph - a device that is used to diagnose mammary gland pathologies. Before a mammogram, a woman must undress to the waist. A lead apron must be worn to protect other organs from radiation.

The examination can be carried out in a standing or sitting position: each breast is compressed in turn with the plates of the device and filmed in different projections. This takes 15-20 minutes and may cause discomfort and pain. After the examination, the woman needs to wait for the mammography to be deciphered and receive a description.

What dose of radiation does a woman receive during an examination?

When examining the mammary glands, the level of harmful radiation is 2 times less than during fluorography, and depends on the type of device - film mammographs have a higher radiation dose than digital ones. During pregnancy, you need to choose the one that will cause the least harm.

When will the results be ready?

The period during which the results will be ready depends on how busy the radiologist is and on the complexity of describing each individual case. Sometimes the result is given immediately, in some cases it takes a day or more. Time is needed for a more complete and detailed analysis of the information received. Some clinics offer the service of sending results by email.

How often can you have a mammogram?

Mammography is recommended to be done no more than once a year for the prevention and detection of cancer for women over 40 years of age. After 50 years, mammography examinations 2 times a year are acceptable. The frequency of examination of young women, if they are at risk or have breast diseases, is determined by the doctor. Mammography for pregnant women is also prescribed on the recommendation of a specialist.

The advantage of this method is its information content, the detection of pathologies in the early stages and the ability to detect changes in the tissues of the mammary glands even before the onset of the disease. During diagnosis and during treatment, the number of examinations that is necessary is allowed.

The state of the hormonal system affects the functioning of all organs and systems; this is especially noticeable in the female body in connection with reproductive function. The most serious consequences can lead to cancer, so it is extremely important to carry out all examinations, including mammography, in a timely manner.

When are you referred for a mammogram?

Mammography is a non-invasive examination of the breast using X-rays (without penetrating the skin) that allows the detection of malignant tumors at an early stage. Referrals for examination are issued by the following specialists: gynecologist, endocrinologist, surgeon.

Experts cannot identify the exact reasons why tumors arise; they name the most common factors, including:

• hereditary characteristics;
• hormonal stress due to frequent abortions or pregnancies, as well as due to the use of oral contraceptives;
• bad habits (especially smoking);
• technogenic, environmental factors.

• after the age of 40-45 years or with early menopause regularly every year;
• if and or if there is a change in the color and shape of the isola;
• in case of chronic diseases (gynecological, endocrine), with a genetic predisposition to tumors;
• for prevention after or for evaluation of treatment.

Modern equipment produces minimal doses of ionizing radiation, close to the natural radiation background of the environment. This examination is considered conditionally dangerous and usually does not cause negative consequences, however, there are certain contraindications for mammography:

• pregnancy at any stage;
• period of breastfeeding and;
• post-abortion period up to six months;
• inflammation or damage to the skin on the breasts and nipples;
• woman's age is up to 35-36 years.

This is due not so much to the supposed harm, but to the fact that during pregnancy and lactation the structure and shape of the mammary gland changes, so the examination results may be unreliable. If necessary, doctors individually decide on the appointment of this procedure; ultrasound mammography (ultrasound of the breast) is possible.

The description is subjective due to the variable structure of tissues and is greatly distorted by hormonal levels, the patient’s age and reproductive period, body weight and other indicators. There are problems with the unification of evaluation criteria for ultrasound examination - what is considered normal, acceptable or pathological condition.

Types of breast examination

There are more effective and modern diagnostic methods compared to conventional x-ray mammography.

• Computer (digital) X-ray mammography – the results are displayed on digital media rather than on film, while the radiation dose is reduced. This technique makes it possible to more accurately determine pathology and everywhere replaces the usual film recording of results.
• Radiothermometric (microwave) mammography – determines the temperature of various parts of the breast. To do this, the skin temperature is measured at several points with a special device and a thermogram is built. Areas with elevated temperatures require special attention, as tumors may be detected there.
• – the resistance of breast tissue to electrical impulses is studied. The breast moistened with water is exposed to an alternating low-power current, which is not felt by the patient. The attached sensor transmits a detailed image to the monitor, it is processed by a special program and as a result, it is determined where the muscle, fat, connective tissue is, where there is fluid, and calcification deposits. This technique is completely safe, but does not guarantee accurate test results (pathologies are detected in less than 80%).
• Magnetic resonance mammography - this technique does not use ionizing radiation, but affects the body through magnetic fields, therefore it is completely safe. This examination can be carried out using contrast agents, which indicate breast tumors in the earliest stages of formation. The patient first takes special drugs that tend to accumulate in tumor tissues, so the tumor becomes noticeable during examination. As a result, the doctor receives information about the size and location of the tumor, and the presence of metastases.
• – the obtained images of the mammary gland are combined into a three-dimensional image, from which the location of the tumor and other data about the disease can be determined. Tomosynthesis of the breast, which produces images in the form of thin sections, is increasingly being used. As in computed tomography, data for tomosynthesis is obtained by displacing the emitter.
• Tomographic laser mammography uses laser radiation in the infrared range. This produces three-dimensional images with very informative results. Literally every millimeter of tissue can be examined, and the diagnostic accuracy is quite high.

Quite expensive techniques are rarely used for routine examinations, but if a tumor is suspected, they allow a quick and accurate diagnosis.

Changes in the female body during different periods of menstruation

Progesterone, or the “pregnancy hormone,” is secreted by the ovaries and adrenal glands; it is necessary to prepare the uterus for conception, helps maintain pregnancy, and has a beneficial effect on the nervous system. This hormone determines the process of ovulation (the appearance of a mature egg from the ovary approximately in the middle of the menstrual cycle).

In a healthy state, progesterone levels in the first half of the menstrual cycle are relatively low. Further, the hormonal level rises depending on the phase of menstruation. After ovulation, if pregnancy occurs, the level of progesterone increases further, otherwise it decreases and menstruation begins.

Progesterone has a very strong effect on the mammary glands in the second half of the cycle, so mammography during or after ovulation is not very informative. It's best to do a breast exam in the first half of your cycle, before progesterone levels rise and ovulation occurs. During this period, the mammary glands are the most painless and soft against the background of increased estrogen levels.

In what phase of the menstrual cycle should you be examined?

The menstrual cycle depends on individual characteristics and can change during different periods of sexual activity. The following main types are distinguished according to cycle duration:

1. Short menstrual cycle (lasts 21-28 days) - mammography is performed from the 3rd to the 7th day of the cycle.
2. The average cycle (lasts 28-35 days) - in this case, you can do the examination from 5 to 12 days.
3. A long cycle (longer than 35-36 days) is the most favorable period for mammography from 9 to 18 days.

In case of an irregular cycle, mammography is performed after the end of menstruation; upon the onset of menopause and the cessation of menstruation, it can be examined at any time. The procedure occurs in this way: a woman stands in front of a mammograph (X-ray machine), the breast is fixed between two plates, slightly squeezing.

Each breast is checked separately, this allows you to compare their anatomical condition and identify compacted nodes. An image is taken in two projections, from which the doctor determines the presence of tumor tumors. Sometimes there is a need to take photographs with additional projections in order to clarify the results.