Does a Mammogram Hurt? Tips for a Comfortable Experience.

If you have been putting off your mammogram because you are afraid it will be painful, you are not alone. It is the number one reason women delay this life-saving screening. We have all heard the jokes about "slamming your breast in a refrigerator door," and for many women, the anticipation is far worse than the actual exam.

 

At Frontier Diagnostics in Guelph, we believe fear shouldn't stand in the way of your health. As a clinic led by radiologists, we want to give you the honest answer about what a mammogram feels like, why we do it that way, and exactly how to make it easier.

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The Honest Answer: What Does It Feel Like?

 

So, does it hurt?

 

Most women describe the sensation as strong pressure or a tight squeezing feeling, rather than sharp pain. It can be uncomfortable, but the discomfort is very brief—usually lasting only 10 to 15 seconds per image.

 

It is important to remember that everyone’s pain threshold and breast sensitivity is different. For some women, it’s a breeze. For others, it can be tender. But almost every patient tells us the same thing when it’s over: "That wasn't nearly as bad as I imagined."

 

The "Why": Why Do You Have to Squish It?

 

We know the compression plate isn't fun. But as radiologists, we can tell you that compression is the single most important factor in getting a clear image. We aren't just doing it to be difficult!

 

Firm compression does three vital things:

1. It spreads the tissue out: This prevents overlapping tissue from hiding small cancers.

2. It holds the breast still: Even a tiny movement can blur the image, meaning we would have to repeat the x-ray.

3. It lowers radiation dose: A thinner breast requires less radiation to image, making the test safer for you.

 

5 Tips for a Comfortable Mammogram

You have more control over your comfort than you think. Here are our top tips for a smoother experience at our Guelph clinic:

 

1. Timing is Everything

If you are pre-menopausal, try to avoid booking your mammogram the week before or during your period. This is when your breasts are naturally most tender and swollen. The best time to book is usually the week after your period ends.

 

2. Skip the Morning Coffee

This is a surprising one. Caffeine can increase breast tenderness and sensitivity in many women. We recommend skipping your coffee, tea, or caffeinated soda on the morning of your exam.

 

3. Take an Advil or Tylenol

If you know you are sensitive, there is no harm in taking an over-the-counter pain reliever (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) about an hour before your screening mammogram appointment. This can take the edge off the discomfort.

 

4. The "Relax" Trick

It sounds easier said than done, but try to relax your shoulder and chest muscles during the scan. If you tense up or pull away, the technologist often has to apply more compression to get the tissue in the right place. Taking a deep breath and letting your shoulders drop can make a huge difference.

 

5. Communicate with Your Technologist

Our Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) are highly trained professionals. They are there to help you. If the pressure feels unbearable, tell them immediately! They can often adjust the angle or speed of compression to help you tolerate it better. You are in charge of your body.

 

A Note on the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP)

Did you know that in Ontario, women between the ages of 40 and 74 can now self-refer for a mammogram through the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) if they meet the criteria? You do not always need a doctor's referral.

 

Regular screening is the best tool we have to catch breast cancer early when it is most treatable. A few seconds of pressure is a small trade-off for the peace of mind that comes with knowing you are healthy.

 

Ready to Book?

Don't let fear keep you from your screening. At Frontier Diagnostics, our brand-new facility in Guelph is designed with your comfort in mind.

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Click here to book your mammogram today or call us to speak with our friendly staff.

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This blog is for general information only and isn’t intended to be medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your own health.