Mammography is offered at Insight Radiology’s North Shore clinic. A mammogram is a simple safe x-ray study of the breast. Mammography is used to find or characterise breast lumps – many of which can be harmless - and is the best way of detecting breast cancer at its earliest stages.

An annual screening mammogram is recommended for women aged between 40 and 50 years. From 50 years, a mammogram is advisable every two years.  Women aged over 40 years do not need a doctor’s referral for a mammogram but we do require your doctor’s details so we can send them a copy of your results.

If you have a lump in your breast or are experiencing any other breast problems, you must see your doctor for a referral. You should never ignore a breast lump.

Before the Mammogram
Do not use powder, deodorant or body cream on your chest or underarm areas on the day of the mammogram.  We recommend you wear a separate shirt and trousers or skirt.

On arrival, you will be asked for any previous mammograms, and your doctor’s referral note if you have one.  It is important for radiologists to have previous mammograms for comparison. A chance may help identify an early problem.  It is important that you keep your mammogram images in a safe place and bring them with you to each subsequent mammogram appointment.

You will be asked to take off your clothing from the waist up and given a gown to wear.
It is important to discuss any symptoms or problems with the mammographer before the examination

The Mammogram
A mammogram is a safe procedure using very low doses of radiation. The breast is compressed gently between two plates on the mammography machine, to provide a more uniform thickness and provide better quality images. A trained technologist will typically take two pictures of each breast.
It may feel uncomfortable during the compression but most women do not experience any more than mild discomfort. Usually the mammogram is best performed in the week following your period so your breasts are less tender. The examination only takes a few minutes and the whole appointment will take about 20 minutes in total.

Post Mammogram
Our expert radiologists will then interpret and read the mammograms. You will be asked to wait in case further images are required.
Following your mammogram, a full report will be provided to you before you leave and a copy will be sent to your doctor.