It’s October and for me, that change of the calendar makes it officially the fall season. For those of us who don’t love winter, we can usually fool ourselves into believing all of September is an honorary part of summer even though it tends to get cooler and of course, school starts. But once October rings in, we can’t deny fall is truly here, at least not where I live. It’s brisker outside, the air feels different, the sun is less shiny, and the leaves are rapidly changing to beautiful fire and jewel tones. October is Sweetest Day, Halloween, and many family birthdays. But October is very significant, marked with pink bows as reminders to get “squished” at your annual mammogram.
Because this early detection test is so important, I decided to document my most recent mammogram in hopes of taking away some of the fear and anxiety that can often surround that dreaded test. I won’t deny that mammograms are uncomfortable, even a little painful. But they’re so quick and so worth it. Remember, early detection is key to saving us from this disease! Please don’t allow finances deter you from engaging in the yearly “boobie trap.” Where I live, the medical center performs the test for free and I am certain this must be so in most areas. If money is a concern, please make some phone calls and start with your local health department, inquiring about free or low-cost testing.
When I arrived at my mammogram appointment, I wasn’t anxious. I started having yearly mamms in my mid-30’s so this has become old hat for me. It’s not something I look forward to. I don’t generally skip happily on my way to the exam room, but because it’s so important, I let health be the focus and not how the test is going to feel. My maternal grandmother was a breast cancer survivor and like most of you probably do, I know many other courageous women who have fought or are fighting this heinous disease.
Once I signed in, I didn’t have to wait long at all before the mammographer retrieved me from the relaxing waiting room (it even had a lovely fireplace!) We went back into a suite complete with changing rooms, private waiting room, and of course, the exam rooms. Things have improved on the mammography fashion front. Gone is the snazzy paper gown. Instead, I got this royal purple kimono-type top. It’s actual fabric!
When I finished the change, I got my own locker with key to store my personal items. This was pretty handy because at previous appointments at other facilities I had to abandon my purse and clothes in a lockless and unattended room while I underwent the test, which made me feel even more vulnerable, so this locker was a happy surprise.
My mammographer who was shy but accommodating when I asked her to join me in an “ussie” (as opposed to a “selfie), was wonderful. She was refreshing and lighthearted and we had some good conversation throughout the appointment. I can tell you, having medical personnel with a good sense of humor and kind bedside manner is imperative and makes the situation so much easier.
Next came the test itself. Of course, I’m not showing pictures of that but we did simulate it with the machine for the purpose of this post. The mammography machine doesn’t look so bad. It isn’t intimidating. There’s not really much more than this to see. It’s some horizontal and vertical plates. You’re squished a bit for sure, but it’s very momentary. They do direct you not to breathe while they take the x-ray (like you have that choice!), but those few seconds of discomfort are nothing to fear.
I assure you that it’s not a torturous test like many women fear. If you’ve had a mammogram, you would hopefully agree. I’m sure every experience is unique but the minimal discomfort is honestly worth it because this is for our health. This is hope. Make your appointment if you haven’t had a mammogram this year. Call your mother. Call your sister. Call your best friends. Encourage them to make (and keep!) appointments. Make them together. There’s power and comfort in numbers. Do this for your family and do this for yourself. Think Pink!
