I'm going for my first mammogram ever (turned 35 in Sept.) on Friday.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

Any advice to make the experience any easier? Thanks.

[Kat45]

1. It only lasts a few seconds when they take each picture.

They position you very uncomfortably, than run over to flick the switch to take the picture and run back to move you out of the position. Yes, it's uncomfortable with some degree of pain, but just remind yourself that it's very quick. Lots of diagnostic tests are a lot worse than mammograms. It's good that you're having a baseline mammogram at 35.

[LiberalinNC]

2. Relax!!

No deodorant, no creams near the breasts or under your arms.

Good luck! BTW are you preforming self breast exams? It saved my life!!!

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

3. Can one shave the morning of the test?

Oh yeah, I almost forgot: I do self-exams.

[LiberalinNC]

4. Yes, you can shave the day of the test

Just don't use any creams, lotions, or deodorants that morning. Good Luck!!!

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

5. Thanks. :)

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

6. Update: had the baseline mammogram. They also did an ultrasound

of both breasts (didn't realize that would be done, but no big deal). Wasn't too bad; rather have it done than a Pap actually. He said everything looked good, though I do have dense breasts (runs in my family). He wants me to come back in 6 mos. so he can do a comparison, and if everything is OK, once a year after I'm 40. Thanks for the helpful hints y'all (and support, of course).

[NashVegas]

7. My First Mam

Was a few years ago. I was terrified going in, thanks to all the scare stories. It was uncomfortable but not nearly as bad as I feared it would be.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

8. Same here; the anxiety was worse than the test, I think.

The fact that I have dense breasts freaks me out a little, since it makes it harder for cancer to be found, I hear, but I guess that's why the radiologist also did the ultrasound.

[LiberalinNC]

9. Yes, that is why he did the ultrasound; they can see inside your

breast better. Glad to hear everything went well, but am even happier to hear that your doctor is on top of things and having you come back in 6 months.

Is there a family history of breast cancer in your family?

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

10. Actually, my mom's sister is a breast cancer survivor.

A third or fourth cousin died of breast cancer. My mom's had some benign cysts removed.

Thank you for concern.

[LiberalinNC]

11. I'm a 12 year survivor, (was 28 when diagnosed) that's why I asked!

You seemed young to have all these tests, but am glad to hear you are keeping up on your health!

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

12. I asked my doctor, and she thought I should get the baseline mammogram.

Glad to hear you are doing well.

[ellie]

14. That happened

to me too! I was told I had very dense breasts after I had to go back for another mammogram then an ultrasound. I have another appointment in 6 months. Keep up the self-exams!

[NotGivingUp]

13. they're bad for your health. nt