Digital Mammograms

What is a Digital Mammogram?

A Digital Mammogram is an x-ray procedure that produces an image of the breast tissue, and is one of the most effective tools in the early detection of breast cancer.

How often should I have a mammogram?

The American Cancer Society recommends that every woman have an annual mammogram beginning at age 40. Along with the annual mammogram women in this age category should also have an annual clinical breast exam and perform monthly self breast exams.

What is a clinical breast exam and how often should I have one?

The clinical breast exam is a manual exam performed by your physician. It is recommended that women ages 20 to 39 have a clinical breast exam every three years and annually for women over age 40.

What is a self breast exam and when should I perform it?

A self breast exam is a procedure every women should perform on a monthly basis to exam their breasts for lumps or any changes. The best time to perform it is seven to ten days after the start of your menstrual cycle when your breasts are less tender, or on the same date of each month if you are past menopause. If you ever detect a change in your breasts, contact your physician.

I have heard that having a mammogram is uncomfortable.

Iroquois Memorial Hospital has taken several steps to increase the comfort for all women even those who have experienced difficulties in the past.

Having invested in the latest technology, IMH's digital mammography unit features an automated release function, that significantly reduces the amount of time the breast is compressed.

Our digital mammography unit also tilts to comfortably accommodate women whose posture is stooped because of a forward bending of the spine.

Why should I choose Iroquois Memorial for my digital mammogram?

Iroquois Memorial Hospital has made a commitment to improving women's health. We achieve this by staying on the leading edge of technology-having invested in the latest equipment and by insisting on the clinical excellence of our staff. Each member of our IMH Mammography staff have passed an extensive registry exam specific for digital mammography and breast imaging.

The IMH mammography program is accredited by the American College of Medical Imaging and certified by the FDA.

Please call 815-432-7727 for more information on (CT Scan, Mammography, Nuclear Medicine, MRI, Ultrasound) and Centralized Scheduling at 815-432-7733 to schedule appointments.

Pre-register for your Digital Mammogram.