On the day, don't wear deodorant, talcum powder or lotion on your breasts or underarms — tiny particles can show up and mimic abnormalities. It helps to book when your breasts are least tender (often the week after your period), wear a two-piece outfit so you only undress from the waist up, and bring details of any previous mammograms for comparison.
Key takeaways
- Avoid deodorant, talc and lotion on the day — they can mimic abnormalities.
- Book when your breasts are least tender (often the week after your period).
- Wear a two-piece outfit so you only undress from the waist up.
- Bring details of previous mammograms for comparison.
A mammogram needs very little preparation, but a few simple steps make it more comfortable and give a clearer image.
On the day
- Skip deodorant, antiperspirant, talcum powder and lotion on your breasts and underarms. Tiny particles in these products can show up on the image and mimic calcium spots or abnormalities, which can lead to an unnecessary call-back.[1]
- Wear a two-piece outfit (top and bottom rather than a dress), so you only need to undress from the waist up.
Timing
If you can choose, book when your breasts are least tender — for many people this is the week after a period. The mammogram involves brief compression of the breast, so less tenderness makes it more comfortable.[1]
Bring your history
Bring details of any previous mammograms (or let the clinic know where they were done, so images can be obtained — often on a CD).[1] Comparing with older images helps the radiologist spot any change over time. Tell staff about any breast symptoms, surgery, hormone use, implants, whether you’re breastfeeding, or could be pregnant.
Frequently asked questions
Why can’t I wear deodorant for a mammogram?
Deodorant, talc and lotion can contain particles that appear on the X-ray and look like abnormalities — which can lead to an unnecessary call-back. It’s easy to reapply afterwards.[1]
Does a mammogram hurt?
It involves brief compression of the breast, which can be uncomfortable but is over in seconds per image. Booking when your breasts are least tender helps.[1]
Should I tell them about breast implants?
Yes — let the clinic know when booking. Experienced staff use special techniques to image around implants safely and get the clearest view.[1]
Sources
- RadiologyInfo.org (RSNA & ACR) — Mammography (how to prepare) — www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/mammo
- healthdirect — Mammography — www.healthdirect.gov.au/mammography
