As I talked with her I discovered that I had just experienced the Softer Mammogram® from Biolucent, Inc. The Woman’s Touch® MammoPad® is a soft, white, single-use pad made of proprietary foam that is invisible to x-rays. The MammoPad is secured to the lower metal plate providing a soft and warm spot for the technician to place your breast. I was amazed that an approximately quarter-inch thick pad could have such a dramatic affect on the amount of pain that I experienced during my mammogram.
The MammoPad was cleared by the FDA in February 2001. Several studies have found that the MammoPad effectively reduces the discomfort associated with mammograms up to seventy percent overall. Other studies show that fear of discomfort is the key reason that women sometimes do not comply with the American Cancer Society's guidelines for annual mammograms after age 40.
Other things you can do to help alleviate pain and discomfort during your next mammogram include:
- Most women experience the least amount of breast tenderness during the first 2 weeks of the menstrual cycle. This is a good time to schedule your next mammogram.
- Caffeine may increase breast tenderness and is best avoided during the week prior to your mammogram.
- An OTC painkiller such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen taken about an hour before your mammogram may help to reduce any pain or discomfort you may feel during the mammography procedure.
And don’t forget to find out whether your mammogram center offers the MammoPad. If your mammogram center does not offer the Softer Mammogram, send a request to Biolucent so they can tell them about the MammoPad.
Learn more about the MammoPad at http://www.mammopad.com
