10/01/2026
4 years ago I shared my 1st mammogram experience. It's worth a read if you have been putting it off! Fast forward to age 44, and I just got my first abnormal mammogram result. Yikes!
Before anyone starts panic Googling (don't worry, I've already completed that step), here's the good news: modern technology lets doctors take a much closer look without anything invasive.
Within a week, I was back for an ultrasound at the same clinic. Honestly? Compared to the mammogram, which was more like a run after being a couch-surfer the last 20 years, this was a walk in the park.
I was guided to a changing room where I removed my shirt and bra, and was taken to a dark room where I was asked to lay down and place my arm above my head. It was a great napping position! The technician placed warm gel on the wand and moved it across my breast, taking pictures as she went. The procedure took less than 5 minutes! The doctor came in to discuss the results.
Was I worried? Meh. A little. But not much. This is because most abnormal mammograms are not cancer. The majority end up being harmless things like cysts or dense breast tissue. Sometimes doctors just need a better look. Only 1-2% of women with an abnormal mammogram will need a biopsy, and most of these biopsies (60-70%) will find no evidence of cancer. Most abnormal screening mammograms turn out to be benign findings like harmless cysts, dense tissue, or fibroadenomas. Your risk factor is determined by a score called a BI-RADS.
The BI-RADS scoring system (0 to 6) standardizes mammogram results based on cancer risk. Scores of 1 and 2 mean normal or completely benign findings (like simple cysts) with a 0% cancer risk, while a BI-RADS 3 means probably benign (less than 2% risk) and requires a 6-month follow-up. A BI-RADS 0 means incomplete, requiring extra imaging or an ultrasound to get a clear look. Scores of 4 and 5 indicate suspicious findings with a cancer risk from 2% to over 95%, both requiring a tissue biopsy to rule out malignancy, while BI-RADS 6 is reserved for already proven cancers undergoing treatment.
My result? BI-RADS 3. So, although still likely a cyst, I get the exciting opportunity to return in 6 months for another ultrasound. (And by exciting, I mean not exciting at all.) Let's hope I don't get to teach you about biposies, then! But even if I do, it's these early screenings that save lives. Routine screenings catch things before you may even notice a change, increasing positive outcomes for the worst-case scenarios. Schedule your mammogram today!
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.
Well, today was fun (sarcasm). I turned 40 this year so it was time for my first Mammogram. Like many, I was nervous! I Have heard it's cold, it hurts, it's humiliating, etc. So I'm here to share with others who have yet to go!
It was nothing. Easy. In and out in 30 minutes. You can't wear any deodorant, perfume lotions etc. on the breast area. I arrived and checked in like any typical doctor's appointment. I changed into a front open, top only gown (actually very soft with a satin edge). I was able to keep my jewelry on (at least the ones that would not interfere with a breast tissue scan), jeans and shoes on, and phone in my pocket. Sure they have to look at you and poke around a bit- similar to a skin cancer exam, but nothing in depth.
The technologist then positioned me in about 6 different positions, nothing you would need yoga for, but a practice game of Twister may help. The machine does clamp down on the breast tissue, but I experienced no pain. You hold your breath for approximately 6 seconds, and the pressure is immediately released when done. The images were checked and I was repositioned. The actual machine I experienced is in the photo below. (Seriously, ladies especially-we go through WAY worse on a regular basis if ya know what I mean). There was even spray deodorant in the changing room for after the scans (how convenient!)
Do it. There is no reason to wait if your primary care doctor or OBGYN recommends you do it. The American Cancer Society states women should have the option to have a mammogram every year, starting at age 40.
Breast cancer in men is rare, but it does happen (less than one percent of all breast cancer cases in the U.S. are diagnosed in men).
Breast cancer screening is not recommended for most men. It’s only recommended for men at increased risk of breast cancer due to a BRCA2 or BRCA1 inherited gene mutation.
For more info: https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org
