What to Expect During a Mammogram

At Cobb Women’s Health, we want to ensure that your mammogram experience is as comfortable and effective as possible. If you’re planning to schedule a mammogram with us, you might wonder whether the timing of your appointment in relation to your menstrual cycle matters. While you are welcome to have a mammogram at any point in your cycle, our providers often recommend scheduling your exam during the week after your menstrual period ends. During this time, your breasts are typically less tender and swollen, helping make the procedure more comfortable and often resulting in clearer images.

Hormonal changes before and during your period can sometimes cause breast tissue to become denser or more sensitive, which may increase discomfort during the mammogram and, in some cases, impact the accuracy of the results. If you tend to experience significant breast tenderness or swelling with your cycle, you may want to avoid booking your mammogram in the days leading up to your period.

However, we understand that scheduling can be challenging. If you’re unable to secure an appointment during the recommended timeframe, it’s still important to prioritize your mammogram whenever you are able. Regular screening is a key part of your health.

If you have questions about when to schedule your mammogram or need guidance based on your personal health history, our experienced team at Cobb Women’s Health is here to help. Please feel free to contact us—we’re committed to supporting your health every step of the way.

At Cobb Women’s Health, your comfort and care are our top priorities. When you arrive for your mammogram appointment, you will be asked to undress from the waist up and provided with a gown that opens in the front for your privacy and convenience.

Our team will guide you to stand in front of our state-of-the-art breast imaging X-ray machine. One breast will be gently positioned on a flat plate, and a second plate will be lowered to comfortably compress the breast tissue. This gentle compression helps us capture clear, high-quality images while minimizing the amount of radiation you receive.

During the procedure, you’ll be asked to remain still and occasionally hold your breath for just a few seconds as images are taken. Typically, we take at least two images of each breast (from top to bottom and from side to side), but additional images may be needed if you have breast implants or dense breast tissue. Our team will carefully reposition you between images to ensure all areas of your breast are thoroughly examined.

While some women experience brief discomfort or pressure from the compression, the procedure should not be painful and usually takes about 20 minutes. After your mammogram at Cobb Women’s Health, you can immediately return to your normal activities. Your images will be reviewed by a radiologist, and results will be sent directly to your Cobb Women’s Health provider, who will follow up with you regarding your results and any next steps.

At Cobb Women’s Health, we understand that breast health is a vital part of your overall well-being. Mammograms are one of the most effective tools for the early detection of breast cancer, and our team is committed to helping you determine the right screening plan based on your individual needs.

For most women at average risk, we typically recommend beginning regular screening mammograms at age 40. However, guidelines can vary, and some organizations suggest starting at age 50. Your personal and family medical history, as well as other risk factors, play a key role in deciding the best time to start screening. That’s why it’s important to have a conversation with your healthcare provider at Cobb Women’s Health to tailor a plan that’s right for you.

If you have a higher risk of breast cancer—such as a strong family history, known genetic factors, or a history of chest radiation—we may advise you to start mammograms earlier or consider additional screening options. For women under 40 who are at average risk, routine mammograms are usually not recommended, as denser breast tissue at younger ages can make mammograms less effective.

Your health and peace of mind are our top priorities. Our experienced providers at Cobb Women’s Health will work closely with you to assess your risk factors and guide you on when to begin mammogram screenings. Regular mammograms, as recommended by your doctor, can play a crucial role in detecting breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.

If you have questions about mammograms or are ready to schedule your screening, contact Cobb Women’s Health today. We are here to support you every step of the way.

At Cobb Women’s Health, we understand that mammograms are a vital part of protecting your breast health. Mammograms use low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of breast tissue, allowing our experienced providers to spot changes or abnormalities that might not be felt during a standard physical exam. Early detection is key—mammograms often identify breast cancer before symptoms appear, giving you the best chance for effective treatment and improved outcomes.

Our team at Cobb Women’s Health encourages routine mammograms, especially for women over 40 or those with higher risk factors. Regular screenings not only help find breast cancer at its earliest, most treatable stage, but also help us monitor for other breast conditions such as cysts or benign tumors. By including mammograms as part of your preventive care with us, you’re taking an important step toward lifelong health and peace of mind.

At Cobb Women’s Health in Austell, GA, Board-Certified Dr. Nandita Mainthia, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., and Dr. Hitendra Hansalia, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., provide expert guidance and personalized care during your mammogram procedure. Understanding the importance of breast health, they ensure that every step of the process is explained clearly, making you feel comfortable and informed. The procedure is quick, typically involving gentle compression of the breast to capture images, which may cause brief pressure but is generally well-tolerated.

Dr. Mainthia and Dr. Hansalia prioritize patient care and safety, offering a supportive environment throughout the mammogram. After the procedure, they will review the results and discuss any necessary follow-up actions. Their compassionate approach ensures that you feel at ease during the screening, empowering you to take charge of your breast health with confidence. Whether you’re scheduling a routine mammogram or have concerns, Cobb Women’s Health is here to provide exceptional care for women in Austell and the surrounding areas. For more information, contact us today or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 1810 Mulkey Rd SW Suite 102, Austell, GA 30106. We serve patients from Austell GA, Lithia Springs GA, Mableton GA, Powder Springs GA, Fair Oaks GA, Hiram GA, Clarkdale GA, Smyrna GA, Marietta GA and surrounding areas.