Mammogram Schmammogram
I did it. I had my first mammogram today. Yes, a few years later than the recommended age 40. But, I've been busy!
It was nothing like I had imagined. And not as bad as others described it. It wasn't the most comfortable thing I've ever done. It wasn't as comfortable as a pedicure on a massage chair; it wasn't as uncomfortable as a pap smear. Somewhere right in the middle.
The whole process was very streamlined and quick. No waiting. The tech guided me to the changing room, gave me my gown and then waited. I decided the robe reminded me of a graduation and got the tech to hum a few bars of "Pomp & Circumstance." (Seriously, I did. I love "Pomp & Circumstance" and thought it was the least she could do for as intimate as we were to become!)
Do you ever wonder who designs these robes/gowns patients are made to wear during procedures? The mammogram robe was a pleasant blue (thank God I was spared the brown!) and was much better then the ct scan/MRI gowns. Still, it leaves much to be desired! There was a woman--gowned and waiting--and she looked amazing. I mean, she sat in the chair (I love those little chairs in hospital waiting rooms and hotel rooms...they make me feel not so short!) with her robe over her dress pants and high heels, sitting with perfect posture and working a crossword puzzle. She made the whole ensemble look elegant!
[I pretty much never look elegant. But that's an entirely separate posting!]
The breast wasn't as compressed as I expected. I just wasn't prepared to contort like I did to let them get images of the lymph nodes and chest wall. That was the uncomfortable part.
I loved the medical pasties. Unfortunately, mine were just adorned with a company name. I was disappointed not to get the pink flowers like my cousin Jeanne (she always gets the best stuff!).
I got to see the image of my breast and it was really cool. I only hope I wasn't looking at bad stuff!
So far this year I've seen lymph nodes in my chest via ct scan. The cyst in my brain via MRI. And now my boob via xray. I hope I don't need to look at any more if the internal parts of my body for a long, long time...
If you haven't had your first mammogram, make that appointment! And if it's been more than a year, it's time! Don't put it off.
