Breast Care Screening Guide

Patient Education > Breast > Breast Care Screening Guide

A complete breast care program includes annual mammograms and clinical breast examinations by your physician and monthly self breast examinations.

Breast Care Screening Chart

EXAMINATION AGE FREQUENCY
Mammogram 40 and over Annually
Clinical Breast Examination by Physician 40 and over
20 - 39 Annually
Every 3 Years
Breast Self-Exam 40 and over Monthly

Breast Care Screening Guide

MAMMOGRAPHY:

A mammogram is the most effective way to detect breast lumps too small to be felt or seen. It usually consists of two or more low-dose X-rays. During mammography, some women report discomfort but only during the short period of time the breast is compressed. Most women agree the discomfort felt is worth the increased chance of detecting an abnormality early when its most treatable.

CLINICAL BREAST EXAMINATION:

This is a breast exam performed by your personal physician. This is a good opportunity to ask questions of your physician and request a demonstration of breast self-examination, if needed.

BREAST SELF-EXAMINATION:

Checking your own breasts is called a breast self-examination. You should examine your breasts every month, one week after your menstrual period ends. Following menopause or a surgical removal of your ovaries, examine your breasts on the first day of each month, or pick a special date (anniversary, birthdate) that will prompt you each month.