Service 05 · Mammography
Digital Mammography
Careful breast imaging, with privacy and respect.
- Typical time
- About 20–30 min
- Radiation
- Low-dose X-rays
- Preparation
- No talc or deodorant that day; bring prior films
- Report ready
- Confirmed at booking
What it shows
Digital mammography uses low-dose X-rays to image breast tissue - for screening as advised by your doctor, and to evaluate symptoms such as a lump, pain or discharge.
- Screening as advised by your doctor
- Evaluation of a lump or symptom
- Follow-up of a previous finding
- Correlation with breast ultrasound
Your examination
What to expect, step by step
- 01
A female technologist positions you for standard views of each breast; privacy is maintained throughout.
- 02
Brief compression is applied for each view - it lasts seconds and eases immediately. It is what makes the image sharp at a low dose.
- 03
The whole visit is usually 20–30 minutes.
- 04
A radiologist reads the study - comparing with your previous mammograms whenever you bring them.
Preparation
Before you come
Avoid talcum powder, deodorant or creams on the chest area on the day - they can appear on the image. If your breasts are tender before periods, the week after your period is often more comfortable. Bring previous mammograms and reports.
Full guide: Preparing for a MammogramYour report
What you take home, and when
Report ready
Confirmed when you book
Urgent clinical questions are prioritised - tell us when you book.
Collection
- Secure digital access to your images and report
- Printed report and films on request at the front desk
Discussing findings
Findings are reported to you and your referring doctor; comparison with previous mammograms is part of the reading whenever you bring them.
Safety & screening
Mammography uses a low, tightly controlled X-ray dose designed specifically for breast tissue.
- Tell us if you are, or might be, pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
- Momentary compression discomfort is normal and settles immediately - tell the technologist if it feels sharp.
- Being called for additional views after a mammogram is common and does not by itself mean anything is wrong.
- Mammography and breast ultrasound answer different questions; your doctor decides which is appropriate - sometimes both.
Questions
Asked before every Mammography scan
Book a scan
Ready for your Mammography scan?
Request an appointment and our team will confirm timing and preparation with you personally.