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 August 2026.
Quick answer: A mammogram is a low dose X-ray of the breast that can detect cancer years before a lump can be felt. Most women at average risk are advised to begin screening between the ages of 40 and 50, and to repeat it every one to two years. The scan takes about 15 minutes and involves brief compression that is uncomfortable rather than painful.
Book a mammogram: call 0300 0341944 or request an appointment.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray examination designed specifically for breast tissue. The breast is briefly compressed between two plates while images are taken, usually from two angles. Compression spreads the tissue so that overlapping structures do not hide anything, and it allows a lower radiation dose to produce a clearer picture.
Digital mammography records the image electronically rather than on film, which lets the radiologist adjust brightness and contrast and magnify areas of interest without repeating the exposure.
Why does early detection matter so much?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Pakistan, and it is too often found late, when it has already spread and treatment is harder and more aggressive.
The reason screening changes outcomes is simple. A mammogram can identify changes as small as a few millimetres, long before anything could be noticed during a self examination. Cancer found at that stage is generally far more treatable, frequently requires less extensive surgery, and carries a much better outlook. Screening is not about finding something wrong. It is about finding it early enough that it matters less.
When should you start screening?
| Situation | General guidance |
|---|---|
| Average risk | Begin between 40 and 50, then every one to two years |
| Family history of breast or ovarian cancer | Often earlier, sometimes ten years before the age at which the relative was diagnosed |
| A lump, skin change or nipple discharge | A diagnostic mammogram at any age, without waiting for a screening interval |
| Under 40 with a concern | Ultrasound is often the first choice, since younger breast tissue is denser |
Guidelines vary between countries and organisations, so treat these as general patterns rather than rules. Your doctor decides based on your age, family history and personal risk.
What is the difference between screening and diagnostic mammography?
Screening is done when you have no symptoms. It is a routine check, and the images follow a standard pattern. Diagnostic mammography is done when there is something specific to investigate, such as a lump, pain in one area, skin dimpling or nipple discharge. It usually involves additional views focused on the area of concern, and often an ultrasound alongside.
Does a mammogram hurt?
Most women describe it as uncomfortable rather than painful, and the compression lasts only a few seconds per image. Two things genuinely help:
- Timing. Book the week after your period, when breasts are least tender. Avoid the week immediately before
- Telling the radiographer. They can adjust positioning and pace. Compression must be firm enough for a clear image, but there is more flexibility in how it is applied than most people expect
If anxiety about discomfort is the reason you have been putting off screening, it is worth knowing that the whole appointment is usually finished within fifteen minutes.
How should you prepare?
- Do not use deodorant, talcum powder, perfume or lotion on the underarms or chest on the day. Their metallic particles can appear on the image and be mistaken for abnormalities
- Wear a two piece outfit, so you only need to undress from the waist up
- Bring previous mammograms and reports. Comparison with earlier images is one of the most valuable tools a radiologist has, because a subtle change over time can matter more than any single picture
- Tell staff if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have breast implants, since additional views are needed
What about dense breast tissue?
Some women have dense breast tissue, which appears white on a mammogram. Because tumours also appear white, dense tissue can make small changes harder to see. This is more common in younger women.
If your report notes dense tissue, your doctor may recommend adding a breast ultrasound, which distinguishes solid lumps from fluid filled cysts and is not affected by density in the same way. The two tests complement each other rather than competing.
Is the radiation from a mammogram safe?
Yes. The dose from a modern digital mammogram is very low. For women in the recommended screening ages, medical consensus is clear that the benefit of finding cancer early substantially outweighs the very small risk from the radiation itself. Tell the team if you are, or might be, pregnant, so timing can be reconsidered.
Mammography at Al-Nasar Lab
Al-Nasar Lab & Diagnostic Centre provides digital mammography at its main Johar Town campus, alongside ultrasound, MRI, CT, DEXA and nuclear medicine. Images are reported by qualified consultant radiologists, and if an ultrasound or further imaging is advised it can usually be arranged during the same visit rather than requiring another appointment elsewhere.
Explore our imaging services, find your nearest branch, or call 0300 0341944 to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should I have my first mammogram?
Most women at average risk are advised to begin between 40 and 50. If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may recommend starting earlier.
How often should I have a mammogram?
Generally every one to two years once screening begins, though your doctor may advise annually if you have additional risk factors.
Can I have a mammogram if I am breastfeeding?
It is possible but the images are harder to interpret, since the breast tissue is denser and more active. Tell your doctor, as ultrasound may be preferred.
Is ultrasound better than mammography?
Neither replaces the other. Mammography is the established screening tool and detects very small changes including early calcifications. Ultrasound is better for younger or denser breast tissue and for characterising a specific lump.
What happens if my mammogram shows something?
Most findings turn out not to be cancer. You may be asked to return for additional views, an ultrasound, or occasionally a biopsy. Being recalled is common and is not in itself a cause for alarm.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please discuss screening and any results with a qualified doctor.
