Your Guide to Mammograms: When to Get Screened and What to Know

Understand the importance of regular mammograms. This guide explains why early detection is key, who should be screened, and what to expect during your appointment.

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Updated September 17, 2025

By Elizabeth Revesz, MD, Breast Surgeon, Virtua Breast Care

Why should I get a mammogram?

Mammograms are invaluable and lifesaving, as they can catch breast cancer early when it's most easily treated. A mammogram can detect a lump long before it can be felt during a physical examination, significantly improving your odds of survival.

Mammograms use X-rays to look for abnormal growths or changes in breast tissue and ducts. Since a mammogram is a screening tool, it can be used to find suspicious areas but not to diagnose breast cancer. Your health care provider will order other tests to make a definitive diagnosis.

When should I get my mammogram?

For women at average risk, the American Society of Breast Surgeons recommends:

Women who don't have dense breasts: annual mammogram starting at age 40
Women with increased breast density: annual mammogram starting at age 40 and recommended surveillance with breast ultrasound or MRI

For women with higher-than-average risk, recommendations include:

Women with a genetic-based risk or radiation therapy to the chest between ages 10 to 30: Annual breast MRI starting at age 25 and annual mammogram starting at age 30
Women with a lifetime risk of breast cancer greater than 20% or a strong family history of breast cancer: Annual mammogram and recommended surveillance with breast MRI starting at age 35
Women with a history of breast cancer: annual mammogram and surveillance with breast MRI as advised by your doctor

Screening recommendations can be complex, so it's best to talk with your doctor about your medical history to learn when and how you should be screened for breast cancer.

What should I expect during a mammogram?

A mammogram takes about 20 minutes. While it briefly compresses the breast, the technician minimizes your discomfort. You're only exposed to a small amount of radiation, typically less than a standard chest X-ray.

Your first mammogram is a baseline used for comparison to your future mammograms.

If a suspicious spot is found, it doesn't mean you have cancer. Your health care provider will order more detailed screening tests, such as breast ultrasound or breast MRI. However, a breast biopsy is the only definitive way to make a diagnosis.

While it's easy to forget to make your mammogram appointment, it truly is your best defense against breast cancer. If you want to "memory proof" it, set an annually recurring reminder in your phone to schedule next year's appointment.