With proper accreditation, it is generally agreed that the risk from x-ray radiation is minimal. A mammogram consits of compressing each breast between two x-ray plates and taking a picture. Screening mammograms usually consist of two pictures, or films, per breast, while a diagnostic mammogram is a special exam requiring more films. A knowledgeable health care professional, known as a mammographer or radiologic technologist specializing in mammogaphy, will carefully position each breast so that the x-ray gives the most accurate information possible. If you haven't gone through menopause, you may find it more comfortable to have your mammogram five to seven days after your period had ended .
Age is one consideration.
It is generally agreed that you should have one mammogram between the ages of 30 and 40 to use as a baseline . If your mother had breast cancer before the age of 40, you should start screening mammography when you are 10 years younger than the age at which your mother was diagnosed. Screening mammograms should then be repeated annually. Personal and family health history and your own level of concern will affect how frequently you'll want to have a mammogram. Recommendations are constantly changing.