Yearly mammograms after 40?

[LisaR]

I was under the impression that a yearly mammogram should be done once you hit 40. I had a baseline done last year when I turned 40. I went to a new doctor yesterday for my yearly exam. She said between 40 and 50, a mammogram is only necessary if breast cancer runs in your family or you have any obvious problems. If not, between 40 and 50, I would only need one more around the age of 45. At 50, it then goes to yearly exams. Is this information correct? She did say I could get one if I wanted but she just didn't feel it was necessary. I don't want to get one if it really isn't necessary but I swear I had it in my head that this was going to be a yearly thing now that I am over 40.

Lisa

 

[Christine]

Every one I know (including myself) does it annually. No breast cancer history here.

 

[Pigeon]

Please get one annually. It is crazy not to. I skipped a year because of problems at my doctor's office, and lo and behold, I had breast cancer. I'm in my 40s. While I was successfully treated, my tumor was bigger than it would have been if caught early, and thus I have a poorer prognosis.

 

[Linda/MA]

I was diagnosed with BC at age 47 and had no history in my family. I had been having mammograms yearly during my 40's. Insist on getting them every year!

 

[gerribon]

Just got back from having mine. No history in the family.....ANNUALLY!!!!!! And don't forget monthly self breast examinations......

 

[LisaR]

Thanks everyone. I thought annually was correct. I did really like this doctor and she doesn't have a problem with me getting one. It just worries me that she thinks only one or two are necessary between 40 and 50.

Lisa

 

[Pigeon]

I have to say, I'd be concerned about her judgment. I know so, so many women who have gotten bc in their 40s, 30s and even 20s... It is not just a disease that strikes older women.

 

[mickeyfan2]

I had my "baseline" at 35 and have had one annually since 40.

 

[froglady]

I had my "baseline" at 35 and have had one annually since 40.

Same here.

 

[Pugdog007]

I had a baseline at 35, he said he'd order another at 38, then annually once I hit 40. Better safe than sorry.

 

[Blondie]

I've been having them annually since I was 35 and there are no risk factors in my family history.

 

[mickeysgal]

I get one annually even though my insurance company will only cover one every other year for women betweent the ages of 40-50. After 50, they'll cover then annually. I pay out of the pocket every other year.

OP - get a mammogram yearly!

 

[HOGFAN]

You need to check with your insurance to see how often they will cover it.
You dont want to get stuck with the bill if you can help it.

 

[porterbl1]

Well I had to get a baseline at 25. I have tested positive for brca1 so we (my 2 sisters and I) get them often.

The truth is postmenapausel (sp) cancer is getting pretty treatable. It is the bc that hits you early that is the most dangerous. You really have to be your own advocate. Do yearly please.
-Becca

 

[wheeler1]

In this day and age that is what your Doctor is advising her patients? I'm truly stunned to hear this!!

I cant get out of my GP's office without him asking, and then noting on my file, that yes, I am going annually for a check up and a mamm...( i see a GYN for this)

Please please take care of yourself and have this done every year, regardless if everything seems just fine. And if you're still unsure, just take a peek into the BC Survivor thread from time to time....Amazing group of women....

Off my soapbox!!!

 

[The Mystery Machine]

I had my first one at 37 and yearly after that.

 

[SplshMtn99]

I had my "baseline" at 35 and have had one annually since 40.

Same here. And there is a history on my mother's side.

 

[Kimmielee]

Had mine the other day.... no history in my family and was told to do it annually as well!

I found a card at Borders last night.... that literally was a picture of an older woman with very LONG skinny one's and they were laying flat as a pancake on the table...I laughed so hard I peed my pants!!

My gyno gave me this warning.... "Picture yourself laying on a cold slab and someone backs the car over your breasts... then, they back up and do it again!"

I was expecting THAT... so the actual one wasn't so bad!

 

[punkin]

OK. I am procrastinating getting one for a baseline. I know I am wrong (and stupid), but I can't force myself to go. In fact, I have been postponing my yearly GYN appointment so I won't get yelled at by my doctor for not going to get one last year. I am 39 and have no history on either side.

 

[mickeysgal]

Punkin, you know you have to do this. Take a friend for moral support and then go to lunch. Its really not as painful as stories you may have heard. It is in your best interest. Please schedule your appointment.