Your step-by-step guide to protection against Breast Cancer
Step 1 – make an appointment
A mammogram helps find breast cancer as early as possible because it can show changes inside a breast before anything can be felt.
You are more likely to survive breast cancer when cancers are found early and are small.
You can have a FREE mammogram every two years if you:
Are aged 45 to 69 years of age
Have no symptoms of breast cancer
Have not had a mammogram in the last 12 months
Step 2 – Treat yourself as the most precious member of your family
The most common cancer affecting women in New Zealand is breast cancer. More than 3,000 women are diagnosed every year.
Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body through lymph nodes and blood vessels.
If you’re aged between 45 and 69, now is the time to take action. Help and support your friends by sharing your story and encouraging them to take a Mammogram.
Between mammograms you should look for any changes to your breasts and if you feel anything see your doctor immediately.
Screening can find changes before they’re felt.
What to expect at your mammogram appointment
When you arrive at the clinic or mobile unit:
give the receptionist your name and details
read and sign a form to agree to have the mammogram.
When your name is called, you will be shown to a private area to undress and given a cape or gown to put on.
You will meet the the person doing your mammogram (the medical imaging technologist — MIT). Let them know if you have breast implants, are on hormone replacement therapy or have a heart device such as a pacemaker.
During your mammogram
Your mammogram will take around 20 minutes. The MIT will try to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Please let them know if your last mammogram was painful or if you have any questions or concerns.
To get the best picture, the MIT will need to flatten your breasts. Some people find it uncomfortable, but if it hurts, let them know immediately.
They will ask you to stand close to the machine and hold very still for about a minute while they take the pictures.
Normally, they will take two pictures of each breast. But if you have large breasts, they may need to take more.
Your MIT will quickly check the quality of the pictures and then let you know your mammogram is finished.
Sometimes, you will be asked to have another mammogram because the first one was unclear. This is a technical check only and not because an abnormality has been found.
Call us today on 0800 030 902 to schedule your free mammogram.
