When will I be invited and what will happen?

A visit to a screening unit should take no more than half an hour. When you arrive at the screening unit you will be greeted by a female member of staff who will check your personal details (name, age and address).

When the staff are ready, a mammographer will take you for your mammogram. They will confirm your identification and talk to you about your medical history and any current problems you may be having with your breasts. They will explain what will happen when the mammograms are taken and answer any questions you may have. If you are happy to proceed, the mammographer will ask you to undress down to the waist and will then take the mammogram. (It is useful to wear separates such as skirt or trousers and top to make this easier and maybe have a jacket or similar that you can use as a cover if you require).

The mammogram is a low dose x-ray. Each breast is placed in turn on the x-ray machine and gently but firmly compressed with a clear plate. The compression only lasts a few seconds and does not cause any harm to the breasts. Compression is needed to keep the breast still and to get the clearest picture with the lowest amount of radiation possible. Some women find compression slightly uncomfortable and some feel short-lived pain. Research has shown that for most women it is less painful than having a blood test and compares with having blood pressure measured.

Once finished the mammography practitioner will explain about how and when you will receive your results and you are then free to leave the unit.

Approximate Timetable for areas

You may find that you are being invited to attend for breast screening earlier than you expected. This is due to changes in our programme post-covid and is done to ensure that all ladies remain within the three year screening cycle.