I need to have a diagnostic mammogram and ultrasound for a lump that my doctor thinks he felt in my breast. The process of getting the authorization and getting the appointment at the lab has been quite the process, therefore I took the first available appointment they offered me, feeling the need to get the show on the road and figure out what this lump is or isn't. this is my first ever mammogram, I have very large breasts and they get VERY tender before my period. I just looked at the calendar and realized that my mammogram is scheduled exactly one week before I'm scheduled to get my period. Therefore my breasts will probably be very tender at this time. Obviously, I don't want to postpone this any longer. Are there any ways I can make this more comfortable? I was thinking of taking some Motrin before the procedure. Any other good suggestions? I'm nervous anyway, I don't want this to be miserable.
Hi K.:
Mammograms are uncomfortable but they are over pretty quick so the discomfort doesn't last too long. I have had many because I also was diagnosed with a lump on my first mammo. I had it biopied and it turned out to be nothing. If I recall correctly I was told that most lumps (around 80%) are non cancerous. I think Motrin is a good idea and just try to relax. Best wishes to you.
M.
I was 37 when I had my first mammogram because of a history of breast cancer in my family. I don't recall if it was before my period, though. I, too, have large breasts that get tender before my period and I was expecting the mammogram to hurt. It really didn't hurt much at all. My doctor says that they got really good pictures, too, so it was done properly. I'm not that bothered by labor pains, either, though, as I arrived at the hospital ready to deliver my second child and had no idea I was that far along. I wasn't that uncomfortable. So, perhaps my pain perception is a little dull. I think taking Motrin at least 1/2 hour before you go should be helpful. The process itself is fairly quick. I wish the best of luck!
My understanding is that the "pain" involved with mamograms has to do with how dense a person's brest tissue is not how large one's breasts are. How accessable your breasts are to fit into the machine can also make a big difference. Both are a real problem for me and I have small to medium breasts and they far apart. They have to grab the tissue under the arm and stretch it into the machine. They have to take several shots to get all the tissue. I find it quite painful. It is possible that your breasts being larger would make for a better fit, having less need to pull and stretch them into place under the exray. I have to say, that even though one would think that the machines they use would be standard from one breast clinic to another, I have not found that to be the case. Some of my mamograms have been significantly more painful than others. The good news is that it is over quickly if they don't have to do multipul shots. It maybe wise for you withstand a bit more pain so you won't have to be so anxious waiting for results. About the only sure way to make the mamo less painful is to schedule it another time. It is true that most lumps aren't cancerous. Please let us know how it turns out. If you don't get the results you hope for please email me, my mother and aunt are survivors. The best of luck to you.
