Take Pressure out of Mammograms: Take a Friend

Women’s health centers across the nation are offering “mammogram parties” to encourage women to have their breasts checked for abnormalities that could signal cancer. Given a little notice, some of them will even customize an event for a large group.

“Anything that encourages women to get screening tests is a great idea,” said Susan Brown, a director of health education with the Susan G. Komen foundation.

Locally, Dr. Helen Mrose of in Severna Park said that women often come for their mammogram with a friend or relative.  "It isn't common for both to have their imaging at the same time, but occasionally they do," Mrose wrote in an email to Patch.  "This is a good option, I think.  With only two women together, if there is a problem then it doesn't become a privacy concern, and there is support for the woman right there."

National Mammography Day is Oct. 21. The date serves as a reminder to schedule a mammogram with a friend, sister, coworker or group of women. Test your knowledge of mammograms with this quiz.

“Mammography is an easy test that can save your life,” said Dr. Dahlia Sataloff, director of The Integrated Breast Cancer Center at Penn Hospital. “Why wouldn’t you do it?”

Tips for when you go from the American Cancer Society:

• Everyone must have doctor’s order for a mammogram and money to pay or proof of insurance. Some places offering freebies have age restrictions (40 plus).
• Bring any past scans or dates and provider phone numbers for previous mammograms, biopsies, etc.
• Don’t wear deodorant, lotion, cream or powder as these things could interfere with a clear mammogram.
• The best time to go is one week after menstrual cycle ends – especially for women with tender breasts.