Can a mammopad be used during a screening mammogram?
A mammopad is a foam pad that rests between a woman’s breast and the plate of a mammography machine, this is also know as “comfort pad’. BreastScreen Australia does not support the use of mammopad for screening mammography because it can affect the quality of the mammogram. Using a mammopad or similar device during the examination has the potential to increase the dose of radiation and reduce the quality of the mammogram. To produce quality images, BreastScreen mammographers ensure every x-ray performed is to the highest possible standards. Any object that has the potential to reduce the optimal quality of the film, attenuate the x-ray beam, increase the exposure required to examine the breast, cause any skin folds or interfere with the image in any way, should be removed. High quality images optimise the ability to detect breast cancers at an early stage.
