A better approach to your breast health

Whether you need a routine mammogram screening or tests for a breast condition, our breast imaging team provides services and care you can feel good about.

Starting at age 40, an annual mammogram is a simple way to take charge of your health and gain peace of mind. We make the mammography process as convenient and comfortable as possible. You can schedule a mammogram near you online without the need for a doctor’s order, and this preventive screening is covered by most insurance plans.

Schedule your mammogram today

Mammogram screening recommendations

We support recommendations that women of average risk for breast cancer begin annual screening mammograms at age 40. Baylor Scott & White Health encourages you to discuss the benefits, risks, and limitations of mammograms with your doctor.

Breast cancer risk factors

If you have any of the following risk factors for breast cancer, talk with your doctor about the right mammogram screening for you. Your doctor can help you navigate your options and take steps to better protect your breast health.

Age: Your risk goes up the older you get.

Ethnicity: Hispanic and African American women may be at an increased risk.

Genetics: Heredity and gene defects play a role 5-10% of the time.

Family history: A first-degree relative doubles your risk, but 75% of women have no family history.

Weight: Overweight or obese women have a higher risk.

Dense breasts: The risk is 1.4x greater in women with dense breast tissue.

High-risk breast screening program

Our high-risk breast screening program provides tools to help you understand your risk and connect with care that fits your needs.

Breast conditions

Breast imaging tests provide you and your doctor with helpful information to better understand your overall breast health. Some common breast conditions that may need breast imaging include:

Additional breast imaging services

While an annual screening mammogram is still the best way to detect breast cancer, there are a number of other breast imaging tests your doctor may order based on your specific needs or symptoms. Baylor Scott & White offers the most advanced technology available to screen for and diagnose breast cancer.

  • Breast ultrasound
  • 3D breast ultrasound
  • Cyst aspiration
  • Ductogram
  • Breast risk assessment
  • Image-guided breast biopsy
  • Stereotactic breast biopsy
  • Lesion localization
  • Mammography (screening mammogram and diagnostic mammogram)
  • 3D mammogram (available at most locations)
  • Full-field digital mammography
  • Bone density screening (physician's order required, no online scheduling)

Patient education resources

From common breast conditions to imaging tests, check out the resources available to help you learn more about your health.

Patient education videos

Scroll through the carousel to find the breast imaging topic you need.

  • Diagnostic mammography
  • Ultrasound-guided biopsy
  • Stereotactic breast biopsy
  • Breast MRI

Frequently asked questions

  • What is a mammogram?

    A mammogram is an X-ray picture of the breast. Doctors use a mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt.

  • Do you need a doctor's order for a mammogram?

    Routine mammogram screening does not require an order from a referring physician. However, if you are having new breast problems, have a recent history of breast cancer or need a follow-up to a previous mammogram, an order is required from your referring physician.

  • What are the benefits of mammography?

    Mammograms give you peace of mind about your breast health. They can save lives by detecting breast abnormalities without signs or symptoms in their earliest stages.

  • What age should you get a mammogram?

    The American College of Radiologists and Society of Breast Surgeons recommend women begin their annual mammogram screenings at age 40.

  • How do you prepare for a mammogram?

    On the day of your mammogram, please do not use any lotions, powders or deodorant in the underarm or breast area. Because you will have to undress from the waist up, we suggest you wear a comfortable two-piece outfit.

  • What do you need to bring to a mammogram appointment?

    You’ll need to bring your driver’s license and proof of insurance, if applicable, to the mammogram appointment. The Affordable Care Act dictates that routine screening mammograms be given without a co-pay or deductible. If this is not your first mammogram, also bring your previous images or have them sent to the facility prior to your appointment for comparison purposes. We can help you with this process if needed.

  • Do mammograms hurt?

    Discomfort during a mammogram varies from patient to patient. Most women, however, only have mild discomfort, like a pressure or squeezing sensation. Your technologist will work with you to try to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

  • How long does a mammogram take?

    A mammogram is a fairly quick procedure. Typically, the entire process takes about 15 minutes. After a mammogram, a technician checks the image for quality. The appointment may take slightly longer if the image needs retaking for greater clarity or because it does not include the entire breast.

  • Is there a risk of radiation exposure with a mammogram?

    Mammograms do use a small amount of radiation, but special care is taken to make sure it’s the lowest amount possible. For most women, the benefits of mammography outweigh the potential risk of radiation exposure.

  • What is a 3D mammogram?

    3D mammography, also known as tomosynthesis, produces 3D images of your breast tissue in 1 mm slices, allowing for greater visibility of breast tissue. It can be done in conjunction with the traditional 2D mammogram. State law now requires that 3D mammogram screenings be covered by insurance in most instances. Please confirm with your insurance company regarding these benefits.

  • Are you eligible for a 3D mammogram?

    All women who are eligible for traditional 2D mammograms are also eligible for 3D mammography. Additionally, research has shown that a 3D mammogram is particularly helpful for women with dense breasts. However, we recommend that you check with your insurance provider to ensure it is covered under your plan.

  • How long does it take to get mammogram results?

    In most cases, screening mammograms are read within a few hours of your exam. Your results will be provided by email. If an email address is not provided, a paper copy of your mammogram results will be mailed to your home.

  • What if you are called back after a mammogram?

    Mammogram screenings are meant to detect abnormalities that might exist. When changes in the appearance of the breast tissue are detected, additional mammography images and/or a breast ultrasound may be required. In most cases, this does not indicate breast cancer.

Schedule your mammogram—and challenge a friend

The Power of 2™ challenge

Take control of your health by scheduling a mammogram. It's easier than ever. By getting your mammogram and challenging a friend, you double its impact. That's what we call the Power of 2.