Tips For Good Mammograms

Breast cancer can strike women at any age. No one is immune. You can, however, train yourself to help your doctor detect lumps on your breasts at an early stage.

During October's Breast Cancer Awareness Month, A Woman's Place at St. Mary's Hospital Medical Center is offering an educational seminar on this subject.

"Breast Care and Cancer Awareness" will be the topic of the Tuesdays Together class on Tuesday, Oct. 26. Roberta Atkinson, the YWCA Encore Plus Manager, will be the presenter from 7-8:30 p.m. Participants will learn valuable information to improve their ability to take charge of their own health.

The class will focus on how early detection can be a lifesaver, and how to do a proper breast self-exam. Silicone models will be available to help teach the proper technique.

2. If you are satisfied that the facility is of high quality, continue to go there on a regular basis so that your mammograms can be compared from year to year.

3. If you change facilities, ask for your old mammograms to bring with you to the new facility, so that they can be compared to the new ones.

4. If you have sensitive breasts, try having your mammogram at a time of the month when your breasts will be least tender. Try to avoid the week right before your period. This will help to lesson discomfort.

5. Don't wear deodorant powder or cream under your arms. It may interfere with the quality of the mammogram.

6. Bring a list of the places, dates of mammograms, biopsies or other breast treatments you have had before.

7. If you do not hear from your physician within 10 days, do not assume that your mammogram was normal. Confirm this by calling your physician or the facility.