Mammography
Did you know…
…the examination takes no more than 15 minutes?
…for the examination, your breast will be gently but firmly compressed between two plates? This compression may be uncomfortable or painful, but it is necessary for optimal image quality. You will remain in contact with the radiology technologist throughout the process and can let them know if the discomfort becomes too much—but try to hold still briefly for the best results.
A mammography is an X-ray examination of the breasts that allows specialists to assess the glandular tissue. In some cases, an ultrasound may be done as an additional examination.
- Note: For this examination, you will need a referral from your GP.
When Is an Ultrasound Recommended?
Your GP or specialist may request an ultrasound for the following reasons:
- If there is suspicion of an abnormality in the breast.
- As a preventive measure for breast cancer screening.
- If there is suspicion of a lung infection or pneumonia.
Important for Pregnancy
This examination is not recommended during pregnancy. The radiation used during the mammography can be harmful to the unborn baby. If you are pregnant or suspect you may be, consult with your doctor. They will weigh the risks of radiation exposure against the necessity of the mammography.
What Is a Mammography?
A mammography produces an image of the breast tissue (mammogram) using low-dose X-ray radiation. This electromagnetic radiation passes through the body’s tissues, but not all tissues absorb the radiation equally.
A mammogram shows the different structures within the breast and can highlight any abnormalities. A radiologist carefully reviews the mammogram; however, in some cases, an additional examination, such as an ultrasound, may be necessary.
Want to learn more? Click Here for more information. Watch this video to see how a mammography is performed.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this examination.
What to Bring
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Bring your health insurance card or, if unavailable, a valid ID (passport or ID card).
- Bring your referral letter from your GP.
- Do not use body lotion or powder on your upper body.
- Leave jewelry at home.
- Continue taking your regular medication as prescribed.
Fill Out the Screening Form
To ensure proper preparation for your MRI scan, we kindly ask you to complete the MRI Screening Form and bring it to your appointment. The form includes questions about the presence of metal in your body and covers other relevant factors for the examination.
If you answered “yes” to multiple questions, please contact us before your appointment.
- Important: If the preparation instructions are not followed correctly, the examination may be canceled, and a new appointment will need to be scheduled.
When Is Mammography Not Possible?
- You have a pacemaker.
- You have a knee, shoulder, or hip prosthesis.
- You have metal objects in your body, such as a metal splinter in your eye or a surgical clip from a vascular procedure.
- If you're unsure whether you are eligible for an MRI scan, please fill out the screening form below and contact us for guidance.
Day of the Examination
Preparing well ensures that the examination runs smoothly and efficiently.
01. At the Radiology Department
- Check in at the CliniX front desk 10 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
- The receptionist will direct you to the waiting area. Please always check in at the front desk first—do not go directly to the waiting area, as the staff needs to confirm your arrival.
- The waiting area may have other patients present who are there for different types of examinations, which means someone who arrives after you might be called in earlier for their test.
02. The Examination
- A radiology technologist will escort you to a changing room.
- You will remove your upper body clothing and wait in the changing room until you are called.
The technologist will guide you on how to position yourself for the X-ray machine:
- You will stand in front of the X-ray device with your chest exposed.
- Your breast will be placed on a support plate and gently compressed between two plates. This compression may be uncomfortable or painful, but it is necessary to obtain high-quality images.
The technologist will then step behind a protective screen, where the control panel is located, to avoid radiation exposure. From behind the screen, they will maintain contact with you and provide instructions.
Usually, multiple images are taken from different angles.
After the images are taken and confirmed to be technically sufficient, the technologist will guide you back to the changing room. Sometimes, you may need to wait briefly if additional images or an ultrasound is required—this does not necessarily indicate a serious issue.
Duration of the Examination
The examination takes approximately 15 minutes.
03. After the Examination
The results will be sent to your GP or referring physician. They will contact you to discuss the findings.
Results
The GP or specialist who requested the examination will receive the results within 24 hours. They will contact you to discuss the findings.
Risks and Complications
X-ray radiation passes through the human body at varying levels, but it does not make you radioactive. The radiology team ensures that the amount of radiation exposure is kept as low as possible for each examination. Therefore, there are virtually no risks associated with this procedure.
Costs and Insurance Coverage
If the examination is requested by your GP, it is typically covered by your health insurance provider. Check the reimbursement overview for further details.
Waiting Time
We offer short waiting times—you can usually schedule your appointment within five working days.
Schedule an Appointment
To schedule an appointment, please contact us at:
Phone: (075) 650 29 75
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Important: You will need a referral from your GP for this procedure.