We all have health appointments that are easy to put off. A mammogram shouldn’t be one of them.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so it’s the perfect time to check in on your breast health, learn about your personal risk and make sure you’re up to date on screening. Mammograms can find breast cancer before you notice a lump or other symptoms, when treatment may be more effective.

Know what’s normal for you

You know your body better than anyone. Being familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel can help you recognize when something has changed.

Talk with your healthcare provider if you notice something new or unusual, such as:

  • A new lump or thickening in your breast or underarm
  • A change in the size or shape of your breast
  • Dimpling, puckering or other changes in the skin
  • Redness, swelling or flaky skin
  • Changes in the appearance of your nipple
  • Nipple discharge, especially if it’s bloody
  • Breast or nipple pain that doesn’t go away

Most breast changes aren’t cancer, so finding something unusual isn’t a reason to panic. But it is a reason to have a conversation with your provider.

Is it time for your mammogram?

Breast cancer doesn’t always come with a warning sign. That’s why routine mammograms are so important. They can detect changes in breast tissue before you can see or feel them.

For women at average risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms every two years between ages 40 and 74. Other organizations recommend different screening schedules, and your individual needs may be different based on your family history and other risk factors.

Not sure when you should be screened? Ask your provider about the schedule that makes sense for you.

Mammograms close to home

WhidbeyHealth offers both 2D and 3D digital mammography, providing convenient access to breast cancer screening right here on Whidbey Island. Routine screening mammograms are available at the WhidbeyHealth Medical Center in Coupeville.

And here’s one less thing to put on your to-do list: you don’t need a provider’s order to schedule a routine screening mammogram at WhidbeyHealth.

Know your risk

While anyone can develop breast cancer, some factors can increase your risk. These include getting older, having certain genetic changes, a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer and having dense breasts, among others.

Family history is important, but remember that you can develop breast cancer even if no one else in your family has had it. Talk with your provider about your individual risk and whether you may benefit from a different screening schedule or additional testing.

Make yourself a priority

Between work, family and everything else competing for your time, it’s easy to move your own health to the bottom of the list. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take a few minutes to put yourself back on it.

If you’re due for a mammogram, call WhidbeyHealth Central Scheduling at (360) 678-7607.