A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast tissue. It is a test to look for early breast cancers. You will need to take off your clothes from the top part of your body, including your bra. The radiographer will then position you so that each breast is placed in turn on the x-ray machine and gently but firmly compressed with a flat, clear, plastic plate.

The breast tissue needs to be compressed (squashed) to keep the breast still and to get the clearest picture with the lowest amount of radiation possible. Most women find this uncomfortable and for some women it is painful for a short time while the breast is being compressed. You will need to stay still for less than a minute while the x-ray is taken. Usually two mammograms are taken of each breast from different angles.

When mammograms have been taken of both breasts you can get dressed again and are free to go.