What not to do before your mammogram

Abhishek Haritha, MD

Diagnostic Radiology

Mammograms are an important aspect of regular health care for women, especially those with a family history of the disease or who are over the age of 40. Whether you’re planning for your very first mammogram, or wondering if guidelines have changed over time, we have some advice from diagnostic radiologist Abhishek Haritha, MD, on what not to do before your mammogram.

Do: Bring any outside records from previous mammograms

“Prior exams are a radiologist’s best friend,” said Dr. Haritha. “Those prior records help us to more accurately pinpoint any changes that might need a closer look. If you’re not able to bring them or you forget, that’s fine! You can still have your screening mammogram. However, our report might be delayed in that case, as we’d need to request outside images.”

Don’t: Wear deodorant, perfume or lotions

“It isn’t really about the scent,” said Dr. Haritha. “Deodorants and lotions can cause what we call ‘artifacts,’ or items that are harmless but look like calcifications. This makes your mammogram less accurate.”

If you forget and realize you’ve worn lotion or deodorant without thinking, don’t worry! Mammogram facilities provide wipes so you can be clean before the screening.

Do: Schedule your mammogram around your schedule, not your cycle

“There is some data that shows screening mammograms may be more sensitive in the detection of breast cancer during the first week of your menstrual cycle,” said Dr. Haritha. “However, with 3D mammograms this is less of an issue.”

Dr. Haritha still recommended avoiding the week just before your period, as this is usually when breast tissue is most tender. Avoiding this week will reduce discomfort.

 Don’t: Worry about a referral

“Self-referrals are welcome for screening mammograms,” said Dr. Haritha. “However, if you have a specific breast complaint or a problem like pain, a lump or nipple discharge, we do ask patients to be evaluated by their provider before we perform our exam.”

Do: Go ahead and have that cup of coffee beforehand

“There is a long-standing myth that drinking caffeine before a mammogram can affect your results,” said Dr. Haritha. “It’s absolutely okay to drink your regular morning latte or cup of coffee before your mammogram.”

Don’t: Wear a dress, jumpsuit or other one-piece outfit

“Make sure to wear a two-piece outfit to your exam,” said Dr. Haritha. “While you’ll be given a gown regardless, if you arrive wearing a top and pants or a skirt, you’ll be able to keep your regular clothing on from the waist down.”

Do: Know your history – and your body

“I highly recommend reviewing your medical and surgical history, including breast augmentation or reduction, plus any relevant family medical history with the technologist,” said Dr. Haritha. “Let us know any genetic predispositions you may have, such as the BRCA gene.”

Also, if you have any sort of skin tags, moles or skin legions, let the technologist know before your screening.

Find more information on mammograms and patient stories on how mammograms make a difference right here on Flourish.