Any x-ray involves radiation but mammograms only require a very low dose. It is about the same as the dose a person receives by flying from London to Australia and back. The risk that such a low dose could cause cancer is far outweighed by the benefits of early detection of breast cancer.

We ask you kindly to attend your Breast Screening appointment alone to reduce the footfall at both the mobile vans and our Luton based centre (since Covid). This of course does not apply to any women that require an additional level of care or support.
Women recalled for assessment following a screening mammogram are welcome to bring someone with them if this is required.

Some women may find the experience of having a mammogram uncomfortable, this is mainly due to the compression required in order to obatin a clear image. Taking a mammogram takes only a few minutes and the vast majoity of women find the experience tolerable. Please speak to us if you have any worries or concerns.

No. Breast screening aims to find breast cancer at an early stage when it may be too small for you or your doctor to feel. Finding breast cancer early greatly increases your chances of successful treatment.

A mammogram takes a few minutes, however your whole visit to the screening unit may take about half an hour.

Please speak to your GP prior to booking your screening appointment.
It is recommended to delay your mammogram until three months post pregnancy and/or breastfeeding.
Please contact the screening unit before your appointment using the contact us page if you are pregnant or are breastfeeding.

A mammogram is an x-ray examination of the breasts and is a method of finding breast cancer at a very early stage. A female mammographer will compress your breasts, one at a time between two special x-ray plates and take the x-rays. The compression only lasts a few seconds and does not cause any harm to the breasts. Compression is needed to keep the breast still and to get the clearest picture with the lowest amount of radiation possible.

You will be asked to undress completely down to your waist so it is a good idea to wear a separate top instead of a dress.

Your results will be sent to your home address and this should be within 3 weeks. You will be advised of any expected delays at the time of your screening.

Your mammogram will be performed either at a mobile screening unit or at our centre in Luton

A female Mammographer will always perform the x-ray.