The images from the x-ray usually pop up on a computer screen for viewing within a matter of minutes. The breast is compressed, basically flattened out so that most abnormalities will show up. A screening mammography is sometimes used as a base line to use to compare with other mammograms that will be done in the future to verify if anything has changed in the breast tissue. A diagnostic mammography is used to investigate changes in the breast, such as discharge from the nipple, pain in the breast, thicken nipple, lumps, tenderness, any kind of change in the breast. The mammogram x-ray uses very low doses of radiation, so the risk of harmful, during the exposure is very low. Mammograms save lives by finding cancer as early as possible. Women should get mammograms every year or every two years based on what your doctor recommends. The disadvantages of the mammography are you cannot wear lotions, powder or deodorant. Also, having your breast flattened is sometimes painful and always very uncomfortable. Some of the positions are hard and uncomfortable to perform. Mammograms do not prevent cancer. Another disadvantage is sometimes the mammogram shows some kind of abnormality and they cannot get a clear view and they will send you will need to get a sonogram. If they cannot see whatever it is, such as a cyst, that is clear then it will usually require a biopsy. I know about these procedures from personal