TL;DR: Most guidelines recommend that women at average risk start annual mammograms at age 40. Women with higher risk — due to family history, genetic factors, or other conditions — may need to start earlier or screen more frequently. Your OB/GYN is the best person to help you determine the right schedule for you.
Due for your mammogram? Schedule your well-woman visit at Lona Sasser OB/GYN today.
How Often Should You Get a Mammogram? A Guide to Breast Cancer Screening for Women
Mammograms save lives — but knowing when to start and how often to go can be confusing, especially when different organizations publish different guidelines. The short answer: Most women at average risk should start annual screening at 40. But the fuller answer depends on your individual risk factors, health history, and what your doctor recommends based on your personal picture.
Mammography is typically discussed at your annual well-woman exam — which is one more reason not to skip it. Your OB/GYN can review your risk factors, help you understand the different screening options, and ensure you have the referrals you need.
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics and Gynecology, your health is our top priority. We offer an array of gynecological services for patients of all ages in Coral Springs, FL. To make an appointment, you can easily book online or give us a call at (954) 340-1050.
What Is a Mammogram and Why Does It Matter?
A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast tissue used to detect changes that may indicate cancer — often before a lump is large enough to feel. Early detection significantly improves outcomes: when breast cancer is caught at a localized stage, the five-year survival rate is over 99%.
According to the American Cancer Society, regular mammography is the most effective screening tool available for most women. 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) has also become more widely available and offers improved detection, particularly in women with dense breast tissue.
How Often Should You Get a Mammogram? Guidelines by Age
Different medical organizations have slightly different recommendations, which is part of what makes this confusing. Here’s a straightforward breakdown.
Ages 40–44
The American Cancer Society says women should have the option to start annual mammograms at 40 if they choose. ACOG also recommends offering screening starting at 40. If you’re in this age group, have a conversation with your OB/GYN about the benefits and limitations of early screening based on your personal risk factors.
Ages 45–54
Annual mammograms are strongly recommended for women in this age group. Most guidelines align here: yearly screening is the standard for average-risk women between 45 and 54.
Ages 55 and Older
Women 55 and older may transition to mammograms every two years, or continue with annual screenings — both are considered appropriate. The key is to continue screening as long as you are in good health and expected to live at least 10 more years. Stopping early is one of the most common — and most preventable — screening mistakes.
Higher-Risk Women: Earlier and More Frequent Screening
Some women should start screening before 40 or screen more often. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Have a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) with breast cancer
- Carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
- Have a personal history of breast cancer or certain benign breast conditions
- Received radiation therapy to the chest before age 30
- Have dense breast tissue (which can be identified on a mammogram)
If any of these apply to you, your OB/GYN may recommend starting screening at 30 (or even earlier), adding breast MRI to your routine, or screening annually regardless of age. ACOG’s guidelines on breast cancer risk assessment offer a helpful framework for these conversations.
What About Dense Breast Tissue?
Dense breast tissue is very common — nearly half of women have it. The challenge is that dense tissue can make mammograms harder to read, as both dense tissue and tumors appear white on an X-ray. If you have dense breasts, your radiologist will note it in your results, and your doctor may recommend supplemental screening with ultrasound or MRI.
Florida law requires mammography facilities to notify women if they have dense breast tissue, so you should receive this information directly in your results letter.
What to Expect During a Mammogram
Mammograms are quick — the actual imaging takes about 20 minutes. You’ll be asked to undress from the waist up and stand in front of the X-ray machine while a technologist positions your breast on a flat support plate and compresses it briefly with another plate. The compression is temporary and may be uncomfortable, but it’s necessary for a clear image.
A few tips to make it easier:
- Schedule your mammogram the week after your period, when breasts tend to be less tender
- Avoid wearing deodorant, antiperspirant, or powder on the day of your appointment, as these can interfere with the images
- Bring your prior mammogram records if you’re going to a new facility
Stay on Top of Your Breast Health — We’ll Help You Get There
At Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology, your health is our top priority. We offer an array of gynecological services for patients of all ages in Coral Springs, FL — including coordinating referrals for mammograms and other preventive screenings. Our team — Dr. Lona Sasser, Dr. Mary Squire-De Leon, and Dr. Cherelle Leslie — will work with you to make sure you’re up to date on everything you need.
We serve women in Coral Springs, Tamarac, Parkland, Coconut Creek, Deerfield Beach, North Lauderdale, and Boca Raton.
Book your annual well-woman exam online through Zocdoc or call us at 954-340-1050. Preventive care is the best care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mammograms
Is a mammogram the same as a breast ultrasound?
No. A mammogram uses X-rays and is the primary breast cancer screening tool for most women. An ultrasound uses sound waves and is often used as a supplemental tool — particularly for women with dense breast tissue or when a specific area needs further evaluation.
What if I find a lump between mammograms?
Call your OB/GYN right away. A new lump or change in your breast should always be evaluated promptly, regardless of when your last mammogram was. Most lumps are benign, but they should never be ignored.
Can I skip my mammogram if I feel fine?
Please don’t. Breast cancer often has no symptoms in its early stages — which is exactly why screening matters. Feeling fine is not a reason to skip a mammogram; it’s a reason to celebrate and keep up with preventive care.
Does a mammogram hurt?
It can be briefly uncomfortable, especially if you have sensitive breasts. Most women find it tolerable, particularly when they schedule it during the week after their period. If you have significant pain during the exam, let the technologist know — they can make small adjustments.
Who orders a mammogram — my OB/GYN or my primary care doctor?
Either can. Many women have their mammogram referral coordinated through their annual well-woman exam with their OB/GYN, which makes it easy to keep everything in one place.
Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash