Mammograms

Mammograms can save lives

Women 40 and older should start annual mammogram screenings, even when no symptoms of breast cancer are present. These images can help your care team screen for breast cancer or make a diagnosis after an initial screening.

Types of mammograms

Screening mammograms

Mammograms of this type are primarily for women who have no breast condition symptoms, no prior history of breast cancer, and no prior lumpectomies. The images can show small tumors up to two years before you or your doctor can feel them during a breast exam.

Diagnostic mammograms

This type of mammogram is often recommended by your healthcare provider when your provider notices changes in your breast tissue based on a screening mammogram, or if you have had a previous breast cancer diagnosis. If you have recently discovered any lumps, pain, drainage, soreness or sensitivity, talk to your healthcare provider about a diagnostic mammogram. A diagnostic mammogram can show the detail of smaller areas, different angles of breast tissue, or other variations.

 

Get a mammogram
Take precautions while pregnant

Tell your physician or the technologist performing the exam if there is a chance that you are pregnant. Your doctor may postpone the exam to reduce the possible risk of exposing your baby to radiation.

Grants can help you pay for a mammogram

Typically, your insurance company will pay for mammograms as screenings to prevent illness. If you do not have insurance and cannot afford a mammogram, you may qualify for grants. Our programs to provide breast screening for uninsured community members are available through a collaboration with Novant Health breast health services, Novant Health Foundation, and individual and corporate donors.

Our experts are working to protect your health

At Novant Health Imaging, our skilled technologists have advanced training in breast imaging and are certified in mammography. Our programs have accreditation from the American College of Radiology.

Answers to your questions about breast health screenings

Get answers to some of the most common questions about breast health screenings at Novant Health, and our most comprehensive answers.