Mammograms: Which guidelines do you follow?

I’m embarrassed to admit that it has been more than two years since my last mammogram (I’m 43). My goal is to get mammograms every year. I started getting mammograms at age 40.

In talking with my friends during Henry’s camping birthday party, I realized that other people have been given different guidelines. The discrepancy caused me to do a little internet rabbit-holing.

It seems like the overarching consensus is to start at 40 for average-risk women (and even earlier for high-risk women). I also read about the difference between 2D and 3D mammogram technology. It seems like 3D technology uses less radiation AND leads to fewer false positives.

I have no idea which type my doctor uses! So I researched that question, too. It seems like my doctor uses both 2D and 3D, which confuses me even more. I’ve got my appointment scheduled already, but now I want to call and make sure it’s for a 3D mammogram.

While doing my research, I could not find a recommendation from the CDC or Cancer.org about recommended frequency for screening. That seemed odd to me. But the Mayo Clinic was very clear with their recommendation: start at age 40 and continue annually.

I’m definitely someone who tries to avoid things like radiation, but the risk feels worth it to me in this case. My aunt had breast cancer. And catching it early can make a big difference.