it wasn't really that bad

[quietann]

So I had my baseline mammogram today. I'm nearly 40, and there is a lot of cancer in my mom's family, and they are Ashkenazi Jews so they may carry the "breast cancer genes" BRC-1 and/or BRC-2.

I'd heard horror stories about how painful it could be to have one's breasts squished. Now, I would not want to have it done just before my period when my breasts are incredibly sore anyway, but it really wasn't that bad. The most painful part was moving my shoulders into the appropriate positions, since I have arthritis there. The tech commented that she did find smaller, firmer breasts (like mine) a bit harder to work with. The whole thing took about 10 minutes, for 4 shots.

The poster on the door going out said, "By taking care of yourself, you are a hero." Maybe that's overstating the case, but it really wasn't that bad, and I'd encourage any woman out there who is 40 or over and hasn't had a mammogram yet to go get one.

Comments

Thanks, Ann!

[bethr.livejournal.com]

For being an inspiration. I'm supposed to have a baseline mgram this year (36) because my mother died of breast cancer when she was 61. And I've been putting it off, and off, and off...not because of the pain---just on the irrational assumption that maybe they'll *find* something...

But now I'm more likely to just make the freaking phone call and get it over with.

[tb]

When I had my first mammogram I was also pleasantly surprised to find out that it really wasn't that bad. The machines are pretty well-designed to apply even pressure. It certainly was the least aesthetic view I've ever had of my breasts, though.

Coincidentally, today I had some extra views taken after my annual mammogram two weeks ago. They wanted a better look at some dense-appearing areas. Turned out it was all normal tissue that just needed further squishing.

I will say that the smaller upper plate they use for the spot views has sharper corners and pinches more than the large plate used for the four regular views, but it still wasn't that bad; the worst part was getting up early and dealing with morning rush hour to make it to the appointment.

[klingonlandlady.livejournal.com]

I got one earlier than that. I really believe they're not going to be that useful for me- Mine are so small that most of the "breast tissue" is up against mt ribcage and not squishable in their infernal device. They can image maybe 30%. And, ouch.

[badgerthorazine.livejournal.com]

Good for you!
I should probably get a baseline ....this reminds me to ask my doctor in two weeks when I see him. Thanks! :-) (granted, a bit young, but better earlier than when MassHealth goes away again.)