Mammograms

Scheduling

Routine breast cancer screening is recommended for individuals 40 and above. Referrals are not required for routine screening mammograms and/or screening ultrasounds (for dense breast tissue) for Yale Health members. If you are having issues or have concerns, please call and ask to speak to the triage nurse.

All of the facilities below use state-of-the-art tomosynthesis (3D) mammography.

Call 203-688-1010 to schedule your mammogram at one of these locations.

Give the mammography center your primary care provider’s or Ob/Gyn clinician’s name so your results can be forwarded to them. If Yale Health is not your primary insurance, please verify your coverage and check if a referral is needed with your primary insurance company.        

All other breast imaging requires a referral.

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is a safe test to screen for breast cancer, which uses a low-dose X-ray machine to take pictures of an individual’s breasts. Mammograms allow radiologists to look for breast lumps and changes in breast tissue. They can show small lumps or growths that may not be felt during a clinical breast exam.

When should I get a mammogram?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that average-risk persons with breasts initiate mammography screening at age 40.

Screening mammography should be done at least every two years and as often as once a year. You can discuss frequency with your provider.

Screening should continue through at least age 74. Individuals aged 75 and older should discuss with their provider whether they should continue getting mammograms based on their individual health factors.

Individuals at increased risk should review their screening program with their provider. 

How is a mammogram done?

The radiological technician places one breast at a time between two plastic plates, which press the breast to flatten it. You will feel pressure and possibly some discomfort for a few seconds. The flatter your breast is, the better the picture. Usually, two pictures are taken of each breast, one from the side and one from above. A screening mammogram appointment takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You will receive your screening mammogram report in MyChart or by mail. Occasionally, additional views are needed, and patients are asked to return.

If you are afraid or nervous about feeling pain during your mammogram, please discuss this with the technologist before the examination. The technologist will work with you to make you as comfortable as possible while still taking good-quality images.

Preparing for your mammogram

When you make your appointment, you will receive specific instructions to follow before you arrive. Here are some general guidelines to help you prepare:

Before Your Mammogram:

• Discuss any new findings or breast problems with your primary care clinician or Ob/Gyn clinician.
• Inform your clinician of any prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
• Schedule your appointment for one week after your period, when your breasts are less likely to be tender.
• Avoid coffee, tea, or caffeinated soft drinks for a few days before the mammogram, as caffeine can cause breast tenderness.

On the Day of Your Mammogram:

• If you have had a mammogram at a different location, bring any previous mammograms, breast sonograms, films, or discs, along with their reports, to your appointment. The radiologist needs this prior information for comparison.
• Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
• Inform the technologist of your previous breast history.
• Wear a shirt and separate bottoms instead of a dress, so you can remove your top while leaving the rest of your clothes on.
• Do not wear deodorant, perfume, lotion, or powder under your arms or on your breasts on the day of your appointment, as these can cause shadows on the mammogram.

Special Considerations:

• If you have breast implants, inform your mammography facility when making your appointment. You will need a technologist trained in x-raying patients with implants, as implants can hide some breast tissue.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a more comfortable and accurate mammogram experience.