A mammogram involves four X-Rays of the breasts, the procedure involves compressing the breast each time to get a good image. If the breast is not compressed the image would be of very poor quality and would have to be repeated with adequate compression. Most women would describe the procedure as uncomfortable, rather than painful, although a few women may find it painful.
The compression during the procedure lasts for approximately 10-15 seconds for each picture and automatically releases once the X-Ray is taken, if you do find the compression too uncomfortable, you can inform the radiographer who may try position you differently.
Please see our ‘breast screening’ page to view a video demonstrating a whole breast screening appointment.