Routine screening mammography, for the general female public, should commence at 40 years of age (except where there is a significant family history) and be performed annually thereafter.

However, where there is a family history of a first-degree maternal relative having been previously diagnosed with breast cancer, the screening should commence 5 years prior to the age of diagnosis of the relative but not commence earlier than 25 yrs. of age and older than 40 yrs. of age.

If you are pregnant and under 35, then it will be suggested that you have an Ultrasound rather than a mammogram.

With the advent of ergonomic improvements in mammography units and improved imaging techniques, this factor is far less of a problem now than before.

Everyone experiences mammograms differently. Some women may feel pain during the procedure, and others may not feel anything at all.

Most women feel some discomfort during the actual X-ray process. The pressure against your breasts from the testing equipment can cause pain or discomfort but it will never be beyond what you are capable of dealing with.