I Had My First Mammogram [Photos]

I did it!  I had my first mammogram!  Ladies, I am telling you from my personal experience, don't be nervous, do this.

I admit I was a little apprehensive yesterday about my appointment but I left thinking that really wasn't a big deal to do.  The total time of my appointment from waiting room to walking to my car to go home was 40-45 minutes.  Let me walk you through the procedure:

I walked into the room and was surprised to see the size of the machine used for the mammograms.  I was expecting something bigger, bulkier, more scary.  This machine wasn't so bad.

Some quick paper work then a wardrobe change.  The fancy gown has a slit all the way down the backside!  The towelettes are for a quick wipe under the breasts and armpits.

Okay, my breast goes where and you're going to do what?!  Sounded worse than it was.  The breast is placed on the platform (which you can see better in the picture of just the machine).  Another piece goes on top.  Pressure is applied to "flatten out" the breast to get the best picture.  The squeeze was a little uncomfortable but it was quick.  Four pictures were taken.  Two with me facing the machine and two with me facing either side.

That was it.  It went quick.  As you can tell from the picture on top...I did it!  My appointment was with Katie and she was great.  She thoroughly explained the whole process before we began and helped set my mind at ease.

I told Katie that my appointment was set up through the Free Cancer Screening Services Program of Delaware, Otsego, and Schoharie Counties and that I wanted our listeners to know that free, yes free, mammograms, breast exams, pap tests, and pelvic exams are available to women age 40 and older who are uninsured or underinsured.

Free colorectal cancer screening take home kits are also available to uninsured and underinsured men and women age 50 and older.  Click here to find out more.

Visits can be made on site at Bassett Healthcare or with the Mobile Cancer Screening Coach.  Call 1-800-345-0225 for your free appointment.

Take advantage of this free program.  Take care of yourself and encourage other to do the same.