How breast screening is done

Breast screening is usually done by a specialist called a mammographer, who will be female. They will also explain what will happen during the screening and answer any questions you have.

The mammograms only take a few minutes. The whole appointment should take no longer than 30 minutes.

Before starting, the mammographer will check your details with you and ask if you have had any breast problems.

You’ll need to undress, in private, above your waist.
The mammographer will help place one of your breasts into the right position on the X-ray machine. They’ll need to touch your breast.
Your breast will be squeezed between 2 pieces of plastic to keep it still before taking the first X-ray. This takes a few seconds and you’ll need to stay still.
The mammographer will then move the machine and take a second X-ray. Your breast will be taken off the machine after the X-rays are done.
Your other breast will then be X-rayed the same way.
You’ll be able to get dressed in private.

You’ll usually get your results within 2 weeks after your screening appointment.

Important

Breast screening is often uncomfortable and sometimes painful for some people. Any discomfort should not last long.

You can talk to the mammographer, who is trained to help you feel more comfortable and give you support. You can also ask to stop at any time.

What happens at your breast screening appointment

This video describes how breast screening is done, and how you can prepare for your appointment.

Media last reviewed: 15 October 2025
Media review due: 15 October 2028

Things to help prepare for your breast screening appointment

You do not need to do anything special to prepare for a mammogram. But there are things that may help.

Do

wear a top that is easy to remove, rather than a dress or jumpsuit, to make it easier to take your clothes off down to your waist
remove necklaces and nipple piercings
tell the staff if you have difficulty walking or standing so they can help make you comfortable during the screening
tell the staff if you’ve found screening uncomfortable in the past
talk to the staff if you are nervous or embarrassed – they are trained to help you feel more comfortable and provide support
ask staff not to use any phrases or words that make you uncomfortable or nervous
tell the staff your pronouns, if you would like to

Don’t

do not use deodorant, antiperspirant or talcum powder on the day as this may affect the mammogram

If you wear a binder, you will need to remove it before having a mammogram.