Mammograms

Mammography is a form of X-ray. The procedure involves passing low doses of radiation through the breast tissue. This method is a good way to detect growths before they are large enough to be detected during your self-breast exam. Many growths are hard to palpate because they may be deep in the breast tissue. The earlier growths are found, the easier they are to treat.

A baseline screening mammogram is recommended once between the ages of 35-39. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend women ages 40 and over should have a mammogram every year. All women need to have a mammogram regardless of the size of their breasts, whether or not they have implants, or whether or not they have had a breast reduction. Your provider may recommend a mammogram earlier if you have certain risk factors. These risk factors include, but are not limited to:

  • A sister, mother, or daughter who has had breast cancer
  • You have had breast cancer before
  • Have never had children
  • Early menstruation
  • Late-onset of menopause

Your provider may order a diagnostic mammogram if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Unexplained growth or thickening area in the breast or armpit tissue
  • Dimpling of the skin on the breast
  • Any type of abnormal discharge from the breast
  • A recent change in the characteristics of the nipple or skin on the breast

Henderson Health Care upgraded to 3D mammography in September 2018. 3D mammography is an imaging test that combines multiple breast x-rays to create a three-dimensional picture of the breast. Studies show that combining 3D mammograms with standard mammograms reduces the need for additional imaging, slightly increases the number of cancers detected during screening and improves breast cancer detection in patients with dense breast tissue. In Spring 2019, Henderson Health Care once again received accreditation from the American College of Radiology. The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety.

Scheduling your mammogram

Call Henderson Health Care at (402) 723-4512 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to schedule your mammogram. The best time to schedule your appointment is the week following your period. This will reduce the likelihood of inflammation and breast tenderness.