The Basics
Get a mammogram every 1 to 2 years starting at age 40. Mammograms help find breast cancer early. It's also a good idea to do a breast self exam every month.
You may need to start getting mammograms before age 40 if breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family. Talk to a doctor or nurse about when to start and how often you need to get a mammogram.
What Happens During a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. Mammograms use a very low level of x-rays (or “radiation”). A mammogram is very safe.
When you get a mammogram, the nurse will place your breasts, one at a time, between two plastic plates and take pictures of each breast. Mammograms do not hurt. A mammogram lasts less than 15 minutes.
