The technologist will take two x-rays of each breast, one from above and one from the side. The breasts will be compressed in order to obtain the best possible image. This is not harmful and will only take a few seconds. The mammogram will then be viewed by radiologists who specialize in breast cancer diagnosis. The radiologists will decide your x-ray result.
Most women feel a slight pressure on the breast.
Some women feel discomfort and a few feel pain. If you have tender breasts, avoid booking a mammogram during the time of month when your breasts are the most sensitive. Inform the technologist if your breasts are tender. Screening mammography uses very low doses of radiation. The risk associated with today's doses is extremely small.