When Should I Get a Mammogram?

When to Start Getting Routine Mammograms

With about 1 in 8 American women developing breast cancer at some point during their lifetime, it is important for women to do what they can to be vigilant about their breast health. When it comes to screening for breast cancer, having routine mammograms is the most effective way to help your doctors detect the early stages of this chronic health condition. Subsequently, this can lead to more positive outcomes for treatment.

However, you may find yourself wondering when you should start this form of cancer screening. Here’s what you should know.

What is a Mammogram?

Mammograms take detailed X-ray images of a women’s breast tissue to help doctors detect any abnormalities that may be the beginning stages of breast cancer.

During a mammogram, you will stand in front of this special machine, and a technician will place your breast on a plate where another plate will press down on your breast from above, flattening it to take detailed images. This will then be repeated to the sides of the breast for additional images to be taken. This is then repeated on the other breast.

When Women Should Start Breast Cancer Screenings

When it comes to the risk factors for developing breast cancer, gender and age are two of the most important. Depending on your age, women of average risk should get mammograms following this schedule:

• Between 40 and 44 years old: Can begin screenings if they want to.
• Between 45 and 54 years old: Should get mammograms annually.
• Older than 55 years old: Should get mammograms biannually.

If you have additional questions about your gynecological health or your risk of developing breast cancer, be sure to reach out to your women’s health care team.

Women’s Health Services in Titusville

From routine exams to pregnancy and delivery, Parrish Women and Children's Health Center is dedicated to providing women with the quality and compassionate care they deserve. We pride ourselves in providing quality care to women at every stage of their lives.

Learn more information about our women's health care services today.