4 Things That You Can Do To Minimize Pain During Your Mammogram

If you are preparing to get your first mammogram, there are certain things that you can do to minimize the pain that you will feel.This article will discuss 4 things that you can do to minimize pain during the procedure. 

Avoid Caffeine

Research has shown that consuming caffeine can cause breast tenderness in some women. Obviously this is going to make the mammogram more painful than necessary, because your breasts will be more tender than usual. To avoid this breast tenderness, you should stop consuming any caffeine about 2 weeks before you are scheduled to go in for your mammogram.

Don't Schedule The Mammogram While You Are On Your Period

A lot of women who are on their period suffer from breast tenderness. While the amount of tenderness may vary from woman to woman, it is simply best to avoid having your mammogram while you are on your period. If you have a set cycle, then you can simply call and make your appointment when you know you will not be on your period. However, if you do not have a regular cycle, you may need to call and reschedule your appointment if your period happens to come early or late. 

Take Pain Medicine Before You Go

Since you know that the process of smashing your breasts during the procedure is going to cause you pain, it is smart to take pain medicine before you go in. Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, right before the procedure will help you to get a head start on your pain relief. You can also continue to take the acetaminophen after the procedure as directed on the pill bottle. 

Avoid Mammograms While Breastfeeding If Possible

Because your breasts are full of milk when you are breastfeeding, they are more dense. This makes a mammogram extra difficult and can also cause you a lot of pain when receiving the mammogram. The milk also can be a problem, because it will likely squirt out during the duration of the mammogram. Unless you are receiving the mammogram for an important medical reason, it is best to wait until after you are done breastfeeding to receive your mammogram.

If you must receive a mammogram, it is important to empty your breasts before the procedure. You can do this either by having your child nurse on each side, or by pumping both of your breasts until they are as empty as possible. 

For more information, speak to experts like Women's Care Inc.