What Your Mammogram Results Actually Mean
Most people know that mammograms are an important part of breast health, but many do not know exactly what is happening during the appointment. You arrive, change into a gown, and stand in front of a machine while a technologist carefully positions each breast to take several images. The appointment is usually quick, but the process can feel unfamiliar, especially if it is your first mammogram.
There is no denying that parts of a mammogram can feel awkward. Having your breast positioned and compressed between two plates is not exactly comfortable, but it serves an important purpose. Understanding what is happening and why it is necessary can make the experience feel a little less uncomfortable and much less intimidating. The compression during your mammogram spreads out the breast tissue and holds it still so the machine can capture clear, detailed images. Depending on your provider and screening needs, these images may be taken using traditional or 3D mammography. Your technologist will guide you through each position and let you know when the compression is about to begin. Each image takes just a few seconds.
Once the appointment is over, the next step is to wait for and receive your results. This can sometimes be the most stressful part of the process. Mammogram reports can include unfamiliar terms that sound much more concerning than they actually are. Without an explanation, it can be difficult to determine whether your results are routine or require another step.
A normal or negative result means the radiologist did not see anything suspicious. You can continue to have regular mammograms according to the schedule recommended by your provider.
Your report may also mention a benign finding. Benign simply means noncancerous. Cysts, certain calcifications, and other common breast changes may appear on a mammogram without being harmful. In many cases, no additional testing is needed beyond continuing your regular screenings.
Some patients are asked to return for additional images. A callback does not mean that cancer was found. The radiologist may need to view an area from another angle, examine overlapping tissue more closely, or compare the images with previous mammograms. You may be asked to have additional mammogram images or a breast ultrasound. The most important thing to remember during this time is that callbacks are a normal part of the screening process, and your care team is with you every step of the way.
Another possible result is a recommendation for short-term follow-up. This means the radiologist saw an area that is likely harmless but wants to make sure it does not change. You may be asked to return in six months rather than waiting until your next annual screening.
In some cases, a mammogram may show an area that needs to be checked with a biopsy. During a biopsy, a small sample of tissue is taken and examined more closely. A biopsy recommendation does not confirm that you have breast cancer. It is the next step needed to understand the finding.
Your results may also describe your breast density. Dense breasts have more fibrous and glandular tissue and less fatty tissue. Having dense breasts is common, and does not mean that anything is wrong. However, dense tissue can sometimes make mammogram images more difficult to read. Your provider may consider your breast density along with your personal and family history when recommending future screenings.
You should never feel like you have to interpret your mammogram results alone. Whether your results are normal, you need additional imaging, or another follow-up step is recommended, we are here to answer your questions and help you understand what comes next. Understanding your results can help you feel more confident, less anxious, and better prepared to take charge of your breast health at every age.
At New York Breast Health, our team keeps you informed throughout the screening process and helps you understand what your results mean for your health.
To schedule an appointment or speak with one of our specialists, contact New York Breast Health today at (516) 676-7676.