Not for emergencies. For a new breast lump, nipple discharge, or skin changes, please contact a licensed healthcare provider promptly. Do not use DOD as a substitute for urgent evaluation. Call 911 for life-threatening symptoms.
What Is a Mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast using specialized low-dose X-ray equipment. Mammograms may be used for routine screening or for diagnostic evaluation of breast symptoms or findings, depending on clinical context determined by a licensed provider.
Educational content only. Screening recommendations vary based on individual risk factors and evolving clinical guidelines. Discuss mammography timing and frequency with your primary care provider or gynecologist. DOD does not perform or interpret mammograms.
Quick Answer
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast performed with a dedicated mammography unit. The breast is compressed between two plates to improve image quality and reduce radiation dose. Mammograms may be used for screening (routine, no symptoms) or diagnostic purposes (evaluation of a symptom or finding), as determined by a licensed provider. Provider orders are required at most mammography facilities. DOD can review mammogram order requests for eligible patients in supported states, but DOD does not perform mammograms or interpret results.
How Mammography Works
A mammography unit is a specialized low-dose X-ray system designed specifically for breast tissue. The breast is gently but firmly compressed between two flat plates to spread the tissue into a thinner layer. This compression serves two purposes: it reduces the amount of radiation needed and helps separate overlapping tissue to improve image clarity.
Modern mammography facilities use digital systems that capture images electronically rather than on film. Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), sometimes marketed as 3D mammography, acquires images from multiple angles and reconstructs them as thin cross-sectional slices, which may improve detection of abnormalities, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. According to RadiologyInfo.org, mammography facilities must meet quality standards under the FDA's Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA).
Screening vs. Diagnostic Mammography
Screening Mammogram
- Performed routinely — no current breast symptoms
- Typically bilateral (both breasts)
- Usually 2 views per breast (standard)
- May include tomosynthesis (3D) images
- Results typically reported within days
Diagnostic Mammogram
- Ordered to evaluate a symptom (lump, discharge, skin change) or a finding on a prior screening mammogram
- May include additional views, magnification views, or targeted ultrasound
- A radiologist may be present to review images in real time
- Results typically provided before the patient leaves or shortly after
Frequently Asked Questions — Mammogram
Sources and Further Reading
- Mammography — Patient Information — RadiologyInfo.org (ACR / RSNA)
- Mammograms — MedlinePlus (NIH)
- Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA) — U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- ACR Breast Imaging Guidelines — American College of Radiology (ACR)
Related Education and Order Pages
Need a Provider Review Before Scheduling a Mammogram?
$40 virtual provider review. Orders issued only when medically appropriate. Facility acceptance varies.
Start Virtual Consult — $40Not for emergencies. Orders not guaranteed.
Educational content only. DOD does not perform or interpret mammograms. Screening recommendations should be discussed with a licensed healthcare provider.