While mammograms can be uncomfortable, they are necessary in order to detect early forms of breast cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the screening itself is fairly straightforward. Those getting a mammogram will stand in front of a special X-ray machine while a technologist places each breast on a plastic plate. From above, another plastic plate will firmly press against each breast, flattening them while the X-ray is taken. These plastic plates will also shift in order to get a side view of each breast. This squeezing of the breasts can be uncomfortable for some people. In order to minimize the amount of discomfort that you feel during the screening, avoid scheduling a mammogram a week prior to getting your period or during your period. After getting the mammogram, you will need to wait to leave until the technologist confirms that the four X-rays do not need to be redone.

Typically, you will receive the results from your mammogram within a couple of weeks. Radiologists will look at the X-rays of your breasts and categorize the results based upon a system called the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System, per the American Cancer Society. These result categories, numbered 0-6, will determine if your screening for breast cancer is negative, benign, probably benign, suspiciously abnormal, highly suggestive of malignancy, or known malignancy. Depending on the test results, you may need to schedule further tests.