Making Mammography More Comfortable Than Ever
A less painful mammogram is possible.
Mammograms are recommended for all women after age 40, but many women skip their yearly mammograms for fear of discomfort (and inconvenience). New technologies can improve your experience.
A softer surface for delicate skin.
Plastic panels aren’t very appealing. Now cushioning has been added between the breast and the plate. This delivers an additional layer of comfort and warmth during a mammogram. Our center uses Bella Blankets®, which allow excellent positioning for the exam and maximum comfort for our patients.
Make a quick exit.
You won’t have to spend all day in a gown. More accurate technology has enabled quicker mammograms. Most mammogram appointments take less than 20 minutes.
A calming environment.
Gone are the days of clinical waiting and exam rooms. Mammogram screening suites now offer spacious dressing rooms, muted colors and lighting, as well as a more personalized experience than ever before.
Results without the wait.
New technology allows speedy screenings and results with less wait and worry. At Chesapeake Regional, screening mammograms are generally read within 24-48 hours. Results are available via MyChart once the study is signed off by the radiologist. Our patients also have the option to receive their result letters by email or traditional mail.
Scheduled in a snap.
No more waiting on hold to schedule a mammogram. There has never been a time when mammograms were more accessible. From weekend and evening appointments to mobile mammography bringing the screening center to you, exam hours now fit your busy schedule.
Did you know that in Virginia you do not need a doctor's order to schedule a mammogram?
You can self-schedule your routine, yearly screening mammogram as soon as you are due for one. However, if you are experiencing anything new or unusual, such as new lumps, nipple discharge, pain or other problems with your breasts, it is best to talk with your primary care provider first. Diagnostic mammograms, which are typically administered after an unusual finding on a previous mammogram or other symptoms, still require a doctor's order.
Yearly mammograms are the best way to diagnose breast cancer in its earliest stages– when it is treatable and survivable. Plan yours today.
Meg is a certified breast care nurse and breast health navigator who serves both as a direct point of contact for referring physicians and as an advocate for patients, providing them with a coordinated, seamless and personalized care management plans. With more than 25 years of nursing experience, Meg has served as a breast care navigator for many years and has started two breast care navigator programs.
She is certified by EduCare as a breast health navigator and by the Oncology Nurse’s Certification Corporation as a certified breast care nurse and received a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Nursing from the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. Meg has served as president of the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation‘s Board of Directors and lobbied for breast cancer-related issues on both the state and national level. She has also reviewed Breast Cancer Research proposals for the Department of Defense office of Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program.