For screening to be effective you should have a regular breast x-ray once every two years. Having a breast x-ray every two years allows most cancers to be found at an early stage when there is a better chance of successful treatment and recovery. A woman having a mammogram at a BreastScreen Victoria service. Your appointment at the screening centre will involve the same steps as our previous visit, and take about the same time. The x-rays take only a few minutes.
Female radiographers are always available.
Please feel free to ask any questions at the screening centre. If you found the x-ray uncomfortable or painful last time or if your breasts are generally tender please let the radiographer know. Your comfort is most important to us. Any discomfort should only last a few seconds, and many women agree their health is well worth it. Breast cancer is more common in women over 50.