Scheduling Your Mammogram: What to Expect and How to Prepare
October 13, 2025Scheduling a mammogram is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health. Whether this is your first screening or you’ve been keeping up with regular checkups for years, knowing what to expect can help you feel calm, confident, and empowered.
Why Mammograms Matter
Mammograms are the best tool for detecting breast cancer early, often before any symptoms appear. Early detection can mean simpler treatments, better outcomes, and more options for care. Most women should begin annual screenings at age 40, but your healthcare provider can help determine the right schedule for you based on your personal and family history.
How to Schedule Your Mammogram
Making an appointment is simple. You can call your provider’s office or use St. Mary’s online mammography scheduling tool. When you call, have your insurance card handy and be ready to share any recent changes in your health. If you’ve had previous mammograms, try to schedule at the same facility so your care team can compare current and past images for the most accurate results.
Preparing for Your Appointment
A few small steps can help make the day easier:
- Do not apply deodorant, lotions, or powders on your chest or underarms, as they can affect the images.
- Wear a two-piece outfit so you only need to remove your top during the exam.
- Bring a list of medications and any past breast procedures or concerns to share with your technologist.
- Time it right if you’re premenopausal, scheduling one week after your period may reduce breast tenderness.
What Happens During the Exam
A mammogram is a quick procedure, typically lasting about 20 minutes. A trained technologist will position your breast on a flat surface and gently compress it for a few seconds to capture clear images. The pressure may feel uncomfortable, but shouldn’t be painful, and it only lasts briefly. Your care team will review the results and contact you with the next steps.
Partnering with Your Primary Care Provider
Your primary care provider plays a key role in coordinating your screenings and helping you understand the results. If you have questions about when to begin or how often to schedule a mammogram, your provider can guide you toward the right plan for your health and risk factors.
Convenient St. Mary’s Locations
Mammograms are available at St. Mary’s imaging locations across our region, making it easy to find care close to home:
- St. Mary’s Breast Health Center - Athens
- St. Mary’s Outpatient Services Center - Watkinsville/Bogart
- St. Mary’s Hospital - Athens
- St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital - Lavonia
- St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital - Greensboro