Tips include

• Do not use deodorants, antiperspirants, body lotions, or talcum powders before the mammogram. Metals in these products can show up on the X-ray picture.

• Avoid wearing necklaces or long earrings, since metals can show up in the X-ray.

• Keep longer hair tied or pinned up so it’s not in the way.

• Most women’s breasts are tender the week before and after their period. Book your mammogram for a time when your breasts are not so tender.

• Some women take a mild pain relief pill, such as the kind you would take for a headache, one to two hours before the appointment. Only do this if it will not affect any other medicines or any health concerns you may have.

• Some experts suggest having less caffeine for two weeks before the appointment to help reduce tenderness.

• Watch video at hhsshare.ca/2016/10/mammogram-tips/