When it comes to breast cancer, many people assume that only older women need to worry about it. However, breast cancer can affect women of any age, and that’s why mammograms are so important.

In fact, some women in their 20s and 30s should be getting regular mammograms to ensure that they catch breast cancer early. Here’s what you need to know about why mammograms matter for women in their 20s and 30s.

What Is a Mammogram?

A mammogram is a type of X-ray that specifically looks at the breast tissue. During a mammogram, you’ll stand in front of a mammography machine, and a technician will place your breast between two plates.

The plates will compress the breast tissue, which can be uncomfortable, but it helps create a clear image. The X-ray will take a picture of the breast tissue, which a doctor will examine to look for signs of breast cancer.

Why Do Women in Their 20s and 30s Need Mammograms?

It’s true that breast cancer is more common in older women, but that doesn’t mean that younger women are immune to the disease.

In fact, some women in their 20s and 30s are at a higher risk for developing breast cancer, and that’s why they need to start getting mammograms earlier.

One reason that younger women might be at a higher risk for breast cancer is if they have a family history of the disease. If your mother, grandmother, or even your father has had breast cancer, you may be more likely to develop it too.

Additionally, if you have a genetic mutation that’s linked to breast cancer, like the BRCA gene, you may be at a higher risk. These factors are particularly important to consider if you have a family history of breast cancer.

Another reason that mammograms are important for younger women is that they can help detect breast cancer early. Breast cancer is much easier to treat when it’s caught early, and mammograms are the best way to do that.

In fact, some women in their 20s and 30s should be getting mammograms every year to make sure that they catch any signs of breast cancer before it spreads.

How to Prepare for a Mammogram

If your doctor has recommended that you get a mammogram, you may be wondering what you need to do to prepare. Here are some things to keep in mind:.

1. Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Because mammograms use X-rays, they can be harmful to a developing baby. If you’re pregnant or could be pregnant, your doctor may recommend postponing your mammogram.

Similarly, if you’re still breastfeeding, you may need to wait until you’ve weaned your baby to get a mammogram.

2. Don’t wear any lotion or deodorant on the day of your mammogram. These products can show up on the X-ray and make it harder for doctors to see the breast tissue clearly.

3. Wear a comfortable and loose-fitting top. You’ll need to remove your top and bra for the mammogram, so wear something that’s easy to take off and put back on.

4. Expect some minor discomfort. As we mentioned earlier, the compression plates can be uncomfortable, and some women describe the sensation as feeling like their breast is being squished.

However, the entire process only takes a few minutes, and any discomfort should subside once the plates are released.

Conclusion

When it comes to breast cancer, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Mammograms are a simple and effective way to detect breast cancer early, which can make all the difference when it comes to treating the disease.

While younger women may not think that breast cancer is something they need to worry about, the truth is that some women in their 20s and 30s are at a higher risk. Talk to your doctor about whether you should start getting mammograms earlier, and be sure to schedule one if your doctor recommends it.