Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Aamer Nadeem Chaudhary, M.B.B.S., D.M.R.D., F.C.P.S. (Diagnostic Radiology), Consultant, Al-Nasar Lab & Diagnostic Centre. Updated October 2026.
Quick answer: A mammogram is a low dose X-ray of the breast. The whole appointment usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, while the compression itself lasts only a few seconds per image. It is uncomfortable rather than painful for most women. Book it for the week after your period, and do not wear deodorant or talc on the day.
Book a mammogram: call 0300 0341944. Mammography is performed at our main Johar Town campus.
Before you arrive
- Choose the right week. The week after your period ends is when breasts are least tender. This single choice makes the biggest difference to comfort
- Skip deodorant, antiperspirant, talc and body lotion on the chest and underarms. They contain fine particles that show up as white specks on the image and can look like calcium deposits
- Wear a two piece outfit, such as a kameez with a separate shalwar or trousers, so you only undress from the waist up
- Bring previous mammograms and ultrasound reports if you have had any, even from another centre
- Tell us if you are pregnant, might be, or are breastfeeding
- Mention breast implants, previous surgery or a lump you have noticed
- Eat normally. No fasting is needed
What happens during the mammogram
- A short history. You will be asked about symptoms, family history, previous scans and your last period
- Changing. You undress from the waist up in private and wear a gown that opens at the front
- Positioning. A radiographer positions one breast on a flat platform. A clear plastic plate is then lowered to press the breast gently flat
- The image. You hold still and may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the image is taken
- Repeat. Usually two images are taken of each breast, one from above and one from the side at an angle
- Done. You dress and leave. Results are reported by a consultant radiologist
The time in the room is usually around ten minutes. The rest of the appointment is paperwork and changing.
Does a mammogram hurt?
For most women it feels like firm pressure that is uncomfortable for a few seconds and then stops. A minority find it genuinely painful, usually when breasts are tender before a period.
Compression is not optional, and it is worth knowing why. Spreading the tissue flat separates overlapping layers, so a small abnormality is not hidden behind normal tissue. It also holds the breast still to prevent blur, and it reduces the radiation dose because there is less tissue for the X-rays to pass through.
If it hurts, say so. The radiographer can adjust the pressure and pace. Timing the appointment correctly and taking a simple painkiller an hour beforehand, if your doctor agrees, both help.
Is the radiation safe?
A mammogram uses a very low dose of radiation. For a woman of screening age, the benefit of finding a cancer early far outweighs the very small risk from the dose. Our guide to X-ray and radiation safety explains the numbers in plain terms.
Mammogram or ultrasound, which will I have?
| Situation | Usual first test |
|---|---|
| Age 40 or above, routine screening | Mammography |
| Under 40 with a lump or symptom | Ultrasound |
| Dense breast tissue on a previous mammogram | Mammography plus ultrasound |
| Pregnant or breastfeeding | Ultrasound |
| A lump found on mammography | Ultrasound added to characterise it |
See our full comparison of breast ultrasound and mammography.
Understanding your report
Mammogram reports usually include a BI-RADS category, a standard scale used worldwide:
- BI-RADS 1: negative, nothing found
- BI-RADS 2: benign finding, such as a simple cyst or old calcification. Nothing further needed
- BI-RADS 3: probably benign. Usually a short interval follow up scan in about six months
- BI-RADS 4: suspicious. A biopsy is normally recommended
- BI-RADS 5: highly suspicious. Biopsy recommended
- BI-RADS 0: incomplete. More images or an ultrasound are needed before a conclusion
The report also states your breast density. Dense tissue is common and normal, but it makes mammograms harder to read, which is why ultrasound is sometimes added.
If you are called back
Being asked to return is common, especially after a first mammogram, because there are no older images to compare against. Most recalls end with a normal result after an extra view or an ultrasound.
A recall is a request for a clearer look. It is not a diagnosis.
How often after the first one?
Commonly every one to two years from age 40, though your doctor sets your interval based on your risk. Women with a strong family history may need earlier and more frequent imaging, sometimes including a breast MRI. Our guide to breast cancer screening in Pakistan covers who needs what.
Mammography at Al-Nasar Lab
Al-Nasar Lab & Diagnostic Centre has served Lahore since 1996 and holds ISO 15189:2022 accreditation from the Pakistan National Accreditation Council. Mammography and breast ultrasound are both available at our Johar Town campus and reported by consultant radiologists. Female radiologists are available for breast ultrasound, and if you would prefer a female radiographer for your mammogram, mention it when booking. so if both are needed they can usually be done in one visit.
See our accreditations, find your nearest location, or contact us to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a mammogram take?
About 20 to 30 minutes for the whole appointment. The compression for each image lasts only a few seconds.
Does a mammogram hurt?
Most women describe brief firm pressure rather than pain. Booking the week after your period makes it considerably more comfortable.
Can I wear deodorant to a mammogram?
No. Deodorant, talc and lotions contain particles that appear as white specks and can be mistaken for calcium deposits.
Can I ask for a female radiographer?
Yes, mention it when you book so the team can arrange it where possible. Female radiologists are available for breast ultrasound.
What does being called back mean?
Usually that the radiologist wants an extra view or an ultrasound. Most recalls end with a normal result.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please see a doctor promptly about any new breast lump or change.
