A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breasts and is a method of finding breast cancer at a very early stage. A female mammographer will compress your breasts, one at a time between two special x-ray plates and take the x-rays. The compression only lasts a few seconds and does not cause any harm to the breasts. Compression is needed to keep the breast still and to get the clearest picture with the lowest amount of radiation possible.

Some women find mammography uncomfortable and some find it painful as the breasts have to be held firmly in position and pressed to take a good x-ray. If you do experience pain it usually only lasts as long as the mammogram although it may continue for some time in a small number of women.

A female Mammographer will always perform the x-ray.

A mammogram takes a few minutes, however your whole visit to the screening unit will take about half an hour.

Any x-ray involves radiation but mammograms only require a very low dose. It is about the same as the dose a person receives by flying from London to Australia and back. The risk that such a low dose could cause a cancer is far outweighed by the benefits of early detection of breast cancer.

No. Breast screening aims to find breast cancer at an early stage when it may be too small for you or your doctor to feel. Finding breast cancer early greatly increases your chances of successful treatment.

Your mammogram will be performed either at a mobile screening van or permanent unit within a building, at one of our local screening sites.

You will be asked to undress completely down to your waist so it is a good idea to wear a separate top instead of a dress.

Yes. Please be aware that there is limited space at some of our screening sites particularly the mobile screening vans. Please note we do not allow men on the mobile vans to ensure each woman's privacy.

Your results should be sent to you within 2 weeks. You will be advised of any expected delays at the time of your screening.