How can I stop worrying about mammogram results?

4 WAYS OF OVERCOMING YOUR MAMMOGRAM FEARS

1. Positive Coping Statements. When your brain is screaming at you to put on the brakes, overcome the negative thought patterns with positive coping statements.
2. Offer Yourself Immediate Rewards.
3. Talk to Friends and Family.
4. Educate Yourself and Set Expectations.

Is it common to be recalled after first mammogram?

About four out of every 100 women screened are recalled. You’re slightly more likely to be recalled after your first mammogram. Of these four people recalled, three will not have breast cancer. They might have a normal breast change or a benign (not cancer) condition.

Why you should not get a mammogram?

Overdiagnosis and overtreatment Screening mammograms can often find invasive breast cancer and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS, cancer cells in the lining of breast ducts) that need to be treated. But it’s possible that some of the invasive cancers and DCIS found on mammograms would never grow or spread.

Is it normal to be scared of mammogram?

If you have any concerns or fears about getting your mammogram, you’re certainly not alone. It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous. Thankfully, there are many ways to help ease your fears if you’re worried about mammograms.

How do you relax during a mammogram?

5 Ways To Stay Calm During A Mammogram

1. 2.) Bring along hand warmers. The machine that you place your breast on may be cold, which makes the process a bit unpleasant.
2. 3.) Listen to your favorite song.
3. 4.) Ask about EMLA cream before the appointment.
4. 5.) Follow your doctor’s instructions.

What happens when you are recalled after a mammogram?

You may be called back to a breast assessment clinic after your mammogram. This is because screening suggests further tests are needed. This does not necessarily mean there’s something wrong, as three out or four women recalled have normal results after attending the assessment clinic.

What happens if something shows up on a mammogram?

You might be told: The extra tests showed nothing to worry about and you can return to your regular mammogram schedule. The results are probably nothing to worry about, but you should have your next mammogram sooner than normal – usually in 6 months – to make sure nothing changes over time.

What should I avoid before mammogram?

Don’t use deodorant before your mammogram. Avoid using deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, creams or perfumes under your arms or on your breasts. Metallic particles in powders and deodorants could be visible on your mammogram and cause confusion.

What is the alternative to a mammogram?

While DBT, MRI, and ultrasound represent the most popular alternatives to digital mammography, there are other screening options available.

What is the next step after an abnormal mammogram?

If you have an abnormal screening mammogram: It’s always a good idea to follow up with your doctor about what to do next. The most likely next step is a diagnostic mammogram or breast ultrasound. In some cases, a breast MRI or a biopsy may be recommended.

What do I need to know about being recalled for mammograms?

This is often the first thing people want to know. Most women are recalled because an area has shown up on the mammogram and more information is needed before a result can be given. This could be an area of the breast that looks slightly different from the rest of the breast or the other breast, or from a previous mammogram if you’ve had one.

What does it mean when you get called back after mammogram?

Getting called back after a screening mammogram is pretty common but can be scary. But getting called back does not mean you have breast cancer. It means that the doctors have found something they want to look at more closely. If you get called back, it’s usually to take new pictures or get other tests.

Why have I been recalled for breast cancer screening?

Often this area is small and any change very subtle. You may also be recalled if you mentioned you’d noticed a breast change, such as a lump, at your screening appointment, even if your mammogram looked OK. Does it mean I have breast cancer? Being recalled doesn’t mean you have breast cancer.

What should I do if my mammogram shows breast cancer?

Be sure to ask the doctor whether you need any additional follow-up and when you should have your next screening mammogram. If the biopsy shows that you do have cancer, your doctor may refer you to a breast surgeon or other breast specialist.