University of California, Los Angeles
School of Medicine Department of Ocnology

Chemotherapy  |  Radiation Therapy  | Surgery  |  Nutrition and Complementary Approaches  |  Mammograms, Pap Tests and Colonoscopies

A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast. This is used to detect any changes, such as lumps, pain or any nipple discharges. Mammograms are often used to look for cancer in women who do not have any symptoms. 

During a mammogram, your breast is compressed between an x-ray plate and a plastic plate. In order for images to appear sharper, the breast is compressed to spread the tissue apart. This can be a little uncomfortable, but does not last very long. If you do experience any pain or a lot of discomfort, let the technician know. 

Mammograms produce a black and white x-ray picture of the breast tissue. It is recommended that women age 40 and older have a mammogram every year. Women in their 20s and 30s should have clinical breast exams every 3 years. Breast self-exams are an option for women in their 20s. 

As suggested by the American Cancer Society, here are a few tips for having a mammogram:

• If it is not posted where it is easily seen, ask to see the FDA certificate that is issued to all facilities that offer mammograms. The FDA requires that all facilities meet high professional standards of safety and quality in order to provide mammogram services.
• Use a facility that specializes in mammograms and does many of them a day.
• If you are satisfied with the facility and its high standards, you should continue to go there on a regular basis that your your mamograms can be compared every year and on a consistent basis.
• If you are going to the facility for the first time, bring a list of the places, dates of your previous mammograms, biopsies, or other breast treatments you have had before.
• If you had mammograms previously done at another facility, you should bring them with you to the new facility (or have them sent there) so they can be compared.
• On the day of your mammogram, do not wear deodorant or anti-perspirant. Some of these have substances can interfere with the x-ray and can show up on the x-ray as white spots. 
• You may find it easier to wear separate pants/skirts and tops, so that you will only need to remove your top and bra during the mammogram.
• Try to schedule your mammograms when your breasts aren't tender or swollen to help reduce discomfort and to ensure a good x-ray. Try to avoid having mammograms the week before your menstrual cycle.
• Be sure to describe any breast symptoms/problems you are experiencing to the specialist performing the mammogram. Go over any medical related histories and any breast cancer history that you or a family member has had.Discuss any new findings/problems in your breasts with your doctor/nurse before having the mammogram.
• Before the mammogram, let the specialist know if you are breastfeeding or if you think you are pregnant.
• If you do not hear from your doctor within 10 days, do not assume that your mammogram is normal, always follow up with your doctor or the facility in which you had the mammogram performed.
  

• Having a mammogram means that you will need to undress from the waist and above. The facility will provide you with a wrap or a gown to wear.
  
• A technologist wil position your breast for the mammogram.
• The whole procedure should not take longer than 30 minutes and the compression of the berast should only take a few seconds.
• All mammogram facilities are now required to send your results to you within a month if there is a problem with your mammogram, you will be contacted sooner.
  

• Try not to schedule your exam during your menstrual cycle. The best time is at least5 days after your menstrual cycle stops.
• Avoid using tampons, birth-control foams, jellies, or other vaginal creams for 2-3 days before the exam.
• Do not douche for 2-3 days before the exam.
• Avoid having sexual intercourse for 2 days before the exam.

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A colonoscopy is an exam that allows a doctor to see the inside of the entire colon. The doctor uses a slender, flexible, hollow, lighted tube called a colonoscope. It is gently eased into the colon and has a tiny video camera, which send images and pictures to a TV screen. Small puffs of air are put in the colon to keep it open and to allow the doctor to see clearly.

The exam usually takes about 15-30 minutes. Patients are usually given medicine to help them relax, which usually puts them to sleep. Colonoscopies should be done beginning around age 50, and is usually performed every 10 years. It is important to talk to your doctor about how often this should be done.

In order to prepare for a colonoscopy, you will need to follow a special diet the day before the exam. Strong laxatives will most likely be prescribed to cleanse the colon. The colonsopy is usually done under sedation and you will more than likely miss a day of work.

Most people feel ok after a colonoscopy. They may feel a bit woozy and will probably be given lots of fluids and be watched after they awaken from the anesthesia. Because of sedation, most facilities ask that you bring someone along so that they can drive you home. 

Please note that these are only suggestions, always seek the advice of your health care provider regarding which tests are best for you and what to expect.