What Is Mammography? When Should a Mammogram Be Performed?

Created: 24.07.2026  ·  Last Updated: 24.07.2026  ·  Category: Radiology  ·  Prepared by the Academic Hospital Web and Medical Editorial Board.

What Is Mammography?

Mammography is a screening method that uses low-dose X-rays to image breast tissue and help detect breast cancer early.

Important Information: Mammography may help detect breast cancer before symptoms appear. Screening frequency and starting age should be planned by a physician according to age, family history, breast density and personal risk factors.

Why Is Mammography Performed?

Mammography can help detect masses in the breast that cannot yet be felt by hand, calcifications or other abnormalities at an early stage. This may increase the chance of treatment success. Regular mammography follow-up is important for protecting breast health.

You can contact us for evaluation about mammography screening, breast health check-up or suspicious breast findings.

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When Is Mammography Performed?

To detect breast cancer before symptoms appear, mammography screening may be planned under physician guidance for women aged 40 and over. For people with a family history of breast cancer, screening may start earlier. Risk factors should be evaluated by a physician and an individualized screening plan should be created.

If there is a palpable breast lump, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, change in breast shape, pain or a previously detected suspicious imaging finding, mammography may also be requested as part of diagnostic evaluation rather than routine screening.

What Should Be Considered Before Mammography?

Some precautions before the exam help produce clearer images and reduce the risk of misinterpretation.

  • On the day of the exam, deodorant, perfume, powder or lotion should not be applied to the underarm or breast area; these products may appear as spots on the mammogram.
  • The most suitable time for mammography may be between days 6 and 12 of the menstrual cycle. Breast tenderness may be lower during this period.
  • If previous mammography images or reports are available, they should be brought for comparison.
  • If pregnancy is suspected, the healthcare team should be informed.

When Are Mammography Results Available?

The time required for results may vary depending on the center and the scope of the exam. Results can often be evaluated the next day. If necessary, additional imaging, breast ultrasound, MRI or biopsy may be requested.

Is Pain Felt During Mammography?

During mammography, breast tissue is compressed briefly. Therefore, a short-lasting pressure or tenderness may be felt, but the procedure is usually tolerable. Since breast tenderness may be higher before menstruation, this can be considered when scheduling the appointment.

Is Mammography Safe?

The X-ray dose used in mammography is low and the procedure is considered safe when performed for an appropriate medical indication. Mammography is an effective screening method used in breast health protection and early detection of breast cancer. Regular check-ups are important for early diagnosis.

Do Not Delay Breast Health Check-Ups

Mammography screening should be planned individually by considering age, risk factors and previous imaging results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mammography?
Mammography is a screening method that uses low-dose X-rays to image breast tissue and helps detect breast cancer early.
When should a mammogram be performed?
For women aged 40 and over at average risk, the screening plan should be determined with physician guidance. Screening may start earlier in people with family history or high-risk factors.
What should be considered before mammography?
On the day of the exam, deodorant, perfume, powder or lotion should not be applied to the underarm or breast area. If pregnancy is suspected, the healthcare team should be informed. Previous mammography results should be brought for comparison if available.
Is mammography safe?
Mammography is an imaging method performed with low-dose X-rays. When recommended by a physician, the benefit of early detection is evaluated against the low radiation risk.
Academic Hospital note: Mammography evaluation should consider age, family history, breast density, previous imaging results, pregnancy status and current breast complaints together. You can book an appointment for evaluation.

References

  1. RadiologyInfo. Mammography (Mammogram): Early Detection of Breast Disease
  2. National Cancer Institute. Mammograms
  3. American College of Radiology. Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines for High-Risk Women
  4. American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines