Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. During their lifetimes, regardless of breast size or family history, 1 in 8 women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis. But early detection makes breast cancer easier to treat.
How and when to make a mammogram appointment
How to Make an Appointment
Women over 40 do not need a referral to make an appointment for a routine screening mammogram. Make an appointment online at one of our 8 locations or call 413-794-2222.
No matter where you go for a mammogram within the Baystate Health system, you can expect consistent, compassionate care.
When Do I Need a Mammogram?
Baystate Health recommends women age 40-49 discuss their options with their primary care provider, and decide based on their evaluation of the risks and benefits. All women over 50 should get mammograms at least every 2 years until they would not be healthy enough to undergo treatment for breast cancer. You should ask your provider about a breast cancer risk assessment when you turn 40, and you should begin having regular mammograms no later than 50.
Once you start having mammograms, you should schedule one every one to two years and continue through at least age 74. Depending on your family or personal history with breast cancer or other cancers, your doctor may recommend that you start having regular mammograms earlier.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to get a mammogram — it can save your life. Talk to your doctor about your breast cancer risk, or schedule a mammogram today.
What is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It can show potential problems – such as a breast lump, a cyst (fluid filled sac), or a build-up of calcium or fatty cells – before you or your doctor can feel them.
At Baystate Health, we use the most advanced mammogram technology to detect trouble spots early and ensure you get the support and care you need as quickly as possible. Our mammography options include both traditional 2D mammography and 3D mammography (breast tomosynthesis or tomo), which uses the same X-rays as a traditional 2D mammogram but creates a 3D image of your breast from all sides.
You and your doctor will decide which type of mammogram is right for you.
Learn more about how mammograms work and what to expect during a mammogram
Preparing for your Mammogram
When you make your appointment, you will receive preparation instructions.
General guidelines:
- Before your mammogram, talk to your provider about any new problems in your breasts. Tell them about any surgeries you have had, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
- Make your appointment for one week after your period. Your breasts are less likely to be tender at that time.
- If you have had a mammogram somewhere other than Baystate Health, bring those records to your appointment.
- Wear a shirt and a separate bottom, rather than a dress or one-piece outfit so that you can undress only from the waist up.
- Caffeine can make your breasts tender, so avoid coffee, tea or caffeinated soft drinks for a few days before your mammogram.
- Don’t wear deodorant, perfume, lotion, or powder under your arms or on your breasts on the day of your appointment. These substances can cause your images to be less clear.
- If you have breast implants, be sure to tell your provider's office when you make your appointment. You will need a technologist who is trained in X-raying patients with implants.
Mammogram Results
We will send you a letter in the mail with the results of your mammogram. You can also access your results through the MyBaystate patient portal. If you need any follow-up care, we will call you.
Where Can I Get a Mammogram?
No matter where within Baystate your mammogram is performed, your results will be reviewed by our team of breast imaging specialists.
We offer mammography appointments in several locations throughout western Massachusetts, as well as northern Connecticut, including: