BREAST HEALTH
Breast Health at Physicians for Women of Greensboro
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
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 services in our office, including mammograms and breast ultrasounds. 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 provide referrals to specialists such as breast surgeons or oncologists 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.
These questions and answers provide a general overview of breast health care and address some common questions our patients have. However, it’s essential to discuss any specific questions or concerns with your Physicians For Women provider.
- What is a mammogram?
- At what age should I start getting mammograms?
- How often should I have a mammogram?
- What should I do to prepare for a mammogram?
- Does getting a mammogram hurt?
- Do mammograms detect all types of breast cancer?
- What can I do to maintain breast health between mammograms?
- Are there alternative screening methods to mammograms?
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.
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.
Most guidelines recommend getting a mammogram every one to two years for women aged 40 and older. However, frequency may vary based on individual risk factors and recommendations from your Physicians For Women provider.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
NEW PATIENTS
New patients can schedule an appointment by calling (336) 273-3661 during our switchboard hours.
EXISTING PATIENTS
Appointments can be scheduled by calling (336) 273-3661 during our switchboard hours or by visiting our Patient Portal.
SWITCHBOARD HOURS:
Monday – Thursday 8:15am-1:00pm
Monday – Thursday 2:00pm-4:30pm
Friday 8:15am-1:00pm
To best serve all of our patients, we request a 24-hour notice if you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to allow time to update demographic information and complete the necessary form(s) for the appointment. You must have your insurance card with you at the time of your appointment in order to be seen.
OFFICE HOURS
Switchboard Hours:
Monday – Thursday 8:15am-1:00pm
Monday – Thursday 2:00pm-4:30pm
Friday 8:15am-1:00pm
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