We got so many insightful comments when we polled our fans for advice on mammograms and thermography the other day on our FB page. In addition to tips on wearing a cardigan to keep warm in the waiting room and doing some lymphatic massage after any "pressing," these tips from our fans were especially good:
"My advice would be to face any fears about it and know that the reason for lowering the age is based on a notable rise of aggressive breast cancers in the 40-50 age group in recent years. Try to be as relaxed as possible during the test. Tense muscles experience pressure as pain. Deep breaths, look away so you don't see the smush...try to think about what your toes or fingertips can feel in that moment."
-Sarah G.
"3d mammogram (tomosynthesis machine) and also an ultrasound is best practise so they can collect images of different types and depth and combine to get a good look inside the breast.Only way to get good information in pre menopausal breasts as they are often dense and just a mammogram doesn't give enough information,by having both tests there is less chance of something being missed.This is also still recommended over MRI. I was only 40 when I got breast cancer.Glad I found it then or I wouldn't be alive today if I had if waited until 50."
-Kristin M.
"If you wear glasses, take your glasses off, sometimes the machine bumps them and you're already uncomfortable anyway. I had a really bad one once - bad technician. It's okay to try a different clinic if you feel its really painful, or the person puts you in a really extra awkward position, or is generally not very nice."
-Casey C.
"They have gowns you can wear if you have a dress on that needs be taken off, or you can keep your bottoms on and just wear the robe for the top half. You do have to remove deodorant first. They have warmed wipes and spray deodorant for you. I usually choose not to wear any that day to be sure because it can mess with the image."-Rachel
My tip: Be sure you're checking your pits, bits, and tits each month ;)