You take good care of your health by eating right, exercising and reducing stress. But are you also having regular mammograms? If not, you could be overlooking a vital form of self-care.

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a low-dose breast x-ray. Medical experts say it is the most effective way to look for changes in the breasts that could eventually become cancerous. Mammograms can find signs of cancer years before symptoms—such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge—show up. When breast cancer is found early, it is often easier to treat.

Women with breast cancer that is diagnosed in its early stages are:

• Less likely to need aggressive treatments such as mastectomy. Mastectomy is the surgical removal of the breast.
• Less likely to need chemotherapy.
• More likely to be cured.

Simply put, mammograms can save lives. Talk with your doctor about having regular mammograms starting at age 40.

What happens during a mammogram?

After you check in, you will remove your shirt and bra and put on a loose-fitting top that opens in the front. The technician will give you wipes so you can remove all traces of deodorant, antiperspirant, lotion, powder or perfume from your breasts and underarms. These products can show up on the x-ray.

Next, you’ll enter the x-ray room. Before you get started, be sure to tell the technician if you think you may be pregnant or if you have breast implants.

The technician will guide you into the right position in front of the x-ray and gently place your breast on its surface. They will place a plastic plate on top and press down to flatten your breast tissue, which will create the highest-quality pictures.

The technician will ask you to be still while they take the x-rays. You’re likely to feel some discomfort, but it usually goes away quickly.

You will typically receive your results by mail within 30 days. The mammogram facility also will send the results to your doctor. If you have questions about your report, talk with your doctor.

Sources: American Cancer Society; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Cancer Institute; U.S. Food and Drug Administration