Did you have a preventative medical procedure postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic?
If you did, you’re not alone however, many people are now starting to reschedule those important and possibly life-saving measures as medical professionals get a better handle on pandemic safety protocols.
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, but there are more than 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.
That’s bad news and good news all in one.
Experts say it’s essential to get your annual mammogram.
On Saturday, WTMJ’s Melissa Barclay will be receiving her first mammogram, leaving lots of questions on what to expect from the doctor’s visit.
Registered Nurse and Regional Survivorship Coordinator at Ascension Wisconsin, Laura Stratte says there are a few changes you need to know because of the pandemic.
“We’re having the patients right into the room where the mammogram machine is with the technologist. You’ll change into a robe right in the room, and it will be just you and the technologist in the room,” said Stratte.
You’ll be standing up during the procedure and you’ll put your breast on a plate.
“They can raise and lower it so it’s at the right level and then they bring another plate on top so they’re compressing your breast tissue.”
The procedure takes about 20 minutes.
Stratte says at Ascension they recommend women start coming in for an annual mammogram at the age of 40 or earlier, depending on your family’s history of breast cancer or a genetic mutations.
You can hear the full interview by clicking on the link above.