Breast health

To ensure we can provide you with comprehensive women's care, our breast health services include:

• Abscess drainage and cyst aspiration
• Breast and lymph node biopsy
• Breast ultrasound
• Breast reconstruction surgery
• Ductography
• Preoperative needle localization
• Sentinel lymph node analysis
• Tomography

Mammograms

We perform digital mammography, which is a highly accurate type of breast imaging exam. In fact, digital mammograms are more effective than traditional mammograms at detecting cancer in women 50 years old and older, women with dense breast tissue and women who are perimenopausal (approaching menopause).

What to expect during a mammogram

You will find the following information to help you prepare for your mammogram.

• Avoid lotion, deodorant and powder on your underarms and breasts — they can interfere with the results.
• Be prepared to discuss your previous mammograms and breast health history.
• Bring your referring physician's contact information and your insurance card.
• If you have sensitive breasts, schedule your mammogram during a time you expect your breasts to be the least tender (such as avoiding the time around your period).
• The exam may take from 10 to 30 minutes.
• Wear an outfit that allows you to remove only the top.
• You may feel some pressure on your breasts during the procedure.

Breast cancer screening guidelines

The following are recommendations for receiving clinical breast exams and mammograms based on age:

• 20 to 39 years old — A professional should perform a clinical breast exam (CBE) as a part of a regular health exam every three years. You should also do regular breast self-exams (BSEs) and alert a physician in the event of any changes.
• 40 years old and older — A professional should perform a CBE annually, and you should have a mammogram each year.

If you have a family history or increased risk of breast cancer, discuss a breast cancer screening strategy with your doctor. Should you receive a cancer diagnosis and additional care is needed, Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute at HCA HealthONE Presbyterian St. Luke's provides medical, radiation and surgical oncologists at our facility.

Breast care resources and support

Our goal is to help you successfully cope with the impact breast conditions can have on all aspects of your life. For this reason, we offer a variety of additional services to improve your breast care experience. For example, we provide counselors to help you manage emotional stresses caused by breast health conditions, nutritionists to help you achieve a healthy diet, financial counseling and transportation assistance.

As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.

askSARAH helpline

Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (303) 253-3225.