Breast Cancer Screenings

Breast Cancer Screenings services offered in Chinatown and Lower Manhattan, New York, Brooklyn and Flushing, NY

Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths, so finding it early could save many lives. Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology’s experienced OB/GYNs offer breast cancer screenings at their offices in Lower Manhattan, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Flushing, Queens. Combining physical exams with cutting-edge mammogram technology, you could avoid potentially life-threatening breast cancer. For further information, call your nearest Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology office or use the online booking feature to schedule your breast cancer screening appointment.

What are breast cancer screenings?

Breast cancer screening checks for signs of breast cancer before you feel any symptoms. The goal is to catch cancer early when it’s easier to treat. Screenings usually include a physical exam and imaging tests like a mammogram.

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that takes pictures of your breast tissue. It helps your provider find lumps or other changes they can’t detect during a physical exam.

When should I start undergoing breast cancer screening?

Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology performs physical checks during your well woman exam and typically recommends having mammograms at around age 40. However, you may need to start earlier if you have a family history of the disease or other risk factors.

Your OB/GYN helps you decide the best time to begin having breast cancer screenings and how often you should have them.

What happens during breast cancer screening?

During a physical exam, your provider methodically works around each breast, pressing into the tissue with their fingers to feel for anything out of place. They can also show you how to perform these checks so you can monitor your breast health with a monthly self-exam.

Being familiar with how your breasts look and feel can help you notice any changes early. If you ever find a new lump, see a change in size, or notice unusual pain or discharge, call Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology right away.

During a mammogram, a technician places your breast between two flat plates on the machine. The plates gently press your breast to get a clear image through all the tissues. This pressing might feel a little uncomfortable, but it only lasts a few seconds.

Mammograms use a minimal amount of radiation and are safe for most people. Plus, the benefits of early detection far outweigh the risks. Some women may need breast ultrasounds or MRIs, especially if they have dense breast tissue.

What does a positive breast cancer screening result mean?

If breast cancer screening shows something unusual, don’t panic because an abnormal result doesn’t always mean cancer. It could be a cyst, dense tissue, or something else that’s harmless. Your Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology provider can schedule more tests to see what’s happening.

Regular breast cancer screenings are one of the best ways to protect yourself from a potentially fatal disease. Call Bayard Street Obstetrics & Gynecology to schedule an exam or book an appointment online today.