• Women's Health
• Mammogram

Do Mammograms Hurt? 4 Myths Debunked

By: Tori Bowlin

August 26, 2024

Mammograms are an effective means for early detection of breast cancer. Still, many women shy away from them for fear of pain or discomfort. Let us debunk a few mammogram myths that will remove your worries and encourage proactive breast health.

Reviewed by Dr. Colleen O'Kelly-Priddy, MD, FACS, breast surgical oncologist at Renown Women's Health.

Myth 1: Mammograms Are Painful

Reality: Although some women experience discomfort during a mammogram, most say it is not painful. Breast compression, which is important to get a clear image, can cause a sensation of pressure, but this lasts for a few seconds. Let your technician know how much pressure you can handle so you're not uncomfortable.

Myth 2: Discomfort Persists Long After the Procedure

Reality: The sensation of pressure developed through the compression process diminishes quickly after the procedure. Most women go about their day afterward without experiencing any residual pain.

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Myth 3: Smaller Breasts Hurt More

Reality: Breast size has relatively little to do with the amount of pain involved while getting a mammogram. The device adjusts to all breast sizes to ensure that the best images are captured at the lowest possible level of discomfort for all patients.

Myth 4: Mammograms Can Cause Breast Cancer

Realty: The amount of radiation used during mammography is minimal, and the risk of injury is very low. The benefits of early detection considerably outweigh the slight dangers of this procedure. Regular mammograms are an essential part of getting screened early for breast cancer when it is most treatable.

Tips for your appointment:

• Plan: Make your appointment the week after your menstrual period, when your breasts are least likely to be tender.
• Speak Up: If you're in pain, ask if the technician can make any changes.
• Just Breathe: Tension increases discomfort, so remain calm during the procedure.