Breast Screening
About My Test
What will happen during your appointment and what to do if you need to change your appointment.
How Will I Know about My Appointment?
Where will I have my Breast Screening?
Your test will be at your nearest breast screening centre. In Edinburgh this is Ardmillan House or nearest mobile screening unit.
What does the Test Involve?
The breast screening test involves taking images of your breasts using x- rays (mammogram) and checking them for changes.
Who does the Test?
The test is done by female health professionals only.
How Long Will the Test Take?
The appointment will usually take no more than 30 mins.
What Happens During the Appointment?
Arriving for the Appointment
When you arrive for your appointment, the mammographer will check your details and explain the test to you.
Questions?
You will be able to ask questions.
What to Wear
You should wear a loose fitting top as the mammographer will ask you to undress from waist up. You can cover up when you’re not having the test done.
Things to Avoid
Don’t use talcum powder or spray deodorant before the test.
The Test
The Mammogram
Your mammographer will X-ray one breast at a time. She will position your breast between 2 special plates on the machine.
X-Rays
The mammographer will press the breast firmly between the plates for a few seconds. She will take 2 pictures of each breast – you should stay as still as possible while she takes the pictures.
Stopping the Test
You can ask to stop the test at any time.
Making Changes to Your Appointment
How to Change Your Appointment
You can make changes to your appointment by phoning your local screening centre.
When to Phone about Your Appointment
You should phone Ardmillan House (0131 537 7400) if you:
- Would like to bring someone with you to the test (men are not allowed to enter mobile screening units).
- Have a disability.
- Need an interpreter or any other help.
- If you miss an appointment.
