Greenville & Washington County Mammography

The Medical Center makes it easy to access services within one location close to home. Mammography is specialized medical imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system to see inside the breasts. A mammography exam, called a mammogram, aids in the early detection and diagnosis of breast diseases in both women and men.

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray image of your breast. It is used to find and diagnose breast disease. Your doctor may order a mammogram if you have a breast problem, such as a lump, pain, or discharge from a nipple. Your doctor may also order one as a screening test. The test can look for breast cancers, noncancer (benign) tumors, and cysts before they can be felt.

Mammograms are typically done with the help of a computer to make digital images. The Medical Center uses two methods of performing a mammogram. One method is called 3-D or tomography, is good for women younger than age 50, women with dense breast tissue, and women who are premenopausal or perimenopausal. The other method is called 2-D, which is the traditional mammogram.

Why might you need a mammogram?

You may need a mammogram as a screening test or to help your doctor make a diagnosis. You may also need a mammogram if you have symptoms such as:

  • A lump.
  • Thickened skin on your breast.
  • Skin indentation on your breast.
  • A nipple with leaking fluid, or discharge.
  • A sore on a breast that doesn't get better.
  • Breast pain.

You may also need a screening mammogram if you have breasts that are dense, lumpy, or very large. This is because your doctor may not be able to do a full physical breast exam.

You may also need a routine mammogram if you are at high risk for breast cancer. Or if you have had breast cancer in the past.

The mammogram itself is not painful. But you may feel discomfort or pain when your breast is moved around and compressed. This is especially true if you have had a recent breast injury or surgery. The technologist will use all possible comfort measures and complete the test as soon as possible.