At Physicians For Women of Greensboro, we believe offering comprehensive breast health services with our OB/GYN services promotes women’s overall health and well-being, including the early detection and prevention of breast cancer and other breast-related conditions.
- Clinical Breast Exams
- Breast Cancer Screening
- Breast Health Education
- Genetic Counseling and Testing
- Referrals and Follow-up Care
- Breast Health Management Plans
Clinical Breast Exams
We perform clinical breast exams as part of routine gynecological check-ups wherein the doctor examines the breasts and surrounding areas for any abnormalities, such as lumps, changes in size or shape, or skin changes.
Breast Cancer Screening
Our office offers breast cancer screening with 3D mammography/breast tomosynthesis in the comfort of our office. These screenings are recommended regularly for women over 40, although the frequency may vary based on individual risk factors and guidelines.
Breast Health Education
At Physicians For Women we provide education on breast self-exams and awareness of breast health and disease including guidance on how to perform regular self-exams at home and encourage women to report any changes or concerns promptly.
Genetic Counseling and Testing
We offer genetic counseling and testing for individuals with a family history of breast cancer or other hereditary conditions. This service helps assess the risk of developing breast cancer and informs decisions about preventive measures such as increased surveillance or risk-reducing surgeries.
Referrals and Follow-up Care
If a concerning finding is discovered during a clinical breast exam or screening, our providers will refer you to specialists such as those in diagnostic testing, breast surgery, or oncology for further evaluation and treatment. We also oversee follow-up care and monitoring for patients with breast health concerns.
Breast Health Management Plans
We collaborate with patients to develop personalized breast health management plans based on individual risk factors, age, and medical history. These may include recommendations for screenings, lifestyle modifications, and preventive measures to promote breast health and early detection of any issues.
What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast used to detect and diagnose breast cancer. It can show changes in breast tissue that may indicate cancer or other abnormalities.
At what age should I start getting mammograms?
Women should start getting regular mammograms starting at 40 years old. However, individual risk factors and family history may influence the recommended age to begin screening.
How often should I have a mammogram?
Most guidelines recommend getting a mammogram every year for women aged 40 and older. However, frequency may vary based on individual risk factors and recommendations from your Physicians For Women provider.
What should I do to prepare for a mammogram?
On the day of your mammogram, avoid using deodorants, lotions, or powders on your breasts or underarms, as they can interfere with the images. Wear comfortable clothing and inform the technician if you have breast implants or any breast-related concerns.
Does getting a mammogram hurt?
Mammograms may cause some discomfort or pressure, but they are generally not painful. The compression of the breasts is necessary to obtain clear images and improve the accuracy of the exam.
Do mammograms detect all types of breast cancer?
While mammograms are highly effective, they may not detect all types of breast cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue. That’s why it’s essential to combine mammograms with regular clinical breast exams and breast self-exams for comprehensive screening.
What can I do to maintain breast health between mammograms?
Practice regular breast self-exams to become familiar with the normal look and feel of your breasts. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, limited alcohol consumption, and avoid smoking.
Are there alternative screening methods to mammograms?
In some cases, additional screening methods such as breast ultrasound or MRI may be recommended, especially for women with dense breast tissue or high-risk factors. However, mammograms remain the primary screening tool for most women.