For many women, the thought of a mammogram brings up one big concern: Will it hurt? At SSM Health, our mammography technologists understand these worries and work hard to make the experience as comfortable as possible. We spoke with Molly Taylor and Maddie Gray, two of SSM Health’s dedicated mammographers, to share their insights and tips.
Is a mammogram painful?
“A lot of people are nervous about the exam and the compression,” Gray said. “But we only compress to what you can tolerate. We want to get a good picture, but we only compress to whatever is comfortable for you.”
Taylor added, “It might feel a little bit uncomfortable, but it should not hurt. If it does, we adjust right away.”
How long does it take?
The good news? It’s quick. “We take four to six pictures depending on your body —starting with two to three on each breast,” Gray said. “Each image takes about five seconds, and the machine automatically releases after the picture is taken.”
Tips to make it easier
Gray shared a simple trick: “If you slightly bend your knees as the machine is coming down, it can relieve some of that pressure or pulling feeling.”
Taylor emphasized communication: “Always advocate for yourself. Let us know if something feels too tight or if something is pinching, and we’ll adjust our technique.”
Our goal: Your comfort
“The more relaxed you are, the better my pictures turn out,” Gray said. “I always tell my patients that there are no stupid questions in this room. If you have a question, I promise you I have asked it.”
Taylor agreed: “We try to make the exam quick and easy. We explain every step so you know what is happening.”
Why mammograms matter
Mammograms remain the gold standard for detecting early breast cancer. Catching changes early can make all the difference in treatment and outcomes. That’s why annual screenings are recommended for most women starting at age 40.
Schedule your mammogram online
Ready to take the next step? Scheduling your mammogram is easy and convenient. Book your appointment online. You can choose a time that works best for you—often in just a few clicks.
