Mammography

Get your mammogram at VHC Health in Arlington and the DC metro area. Our friendly staff guides you through the entire process and makes sure you receive fast, accurate results. You'll benefit from our advanced 3D technology that finds cancer earlier and with more detail.

When to Get a Mammogram

Finding breast cancer early can save lives. The American College of Radiology (ACR) recommends you start getting annual mammograms at age 40 if you have an average risk for breast cancer.

Get a Risk Assessment by Age 30

Talk to your doctor about your breast cancer risk before you turn 30, especially if you're Black or of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. This helps you find out early if you need extra screening.

If You Have a Higher Risk

You may need to start screening earlier and get additional tests if you have higher risk factors.

Get a breast MRI if you have:

• Gene changes that raise your risk (like BRCA1 or BRCA2)
• A 20% or higher lifetime risk of breast cancer
• A family history of these gene changes (even if you haven't been tested)
• A history of chest radiation therapy when you were young

Consider a breast MRI if you:

• Had breast cancer before and have dense breast tissue
• Had breast cancer at age 50 or younger
• Had a breast biopsy that showed unusual cells
• Have other risk factors along with a breast cancer history

If you can't have an MRI, ask about getting an ultrasound instead.

3D Mammogram Technology

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. If you find it early, it's easier to treat.

Modern 3D technology at VHC Health finds breast cancer better than traditional 2D mammography alone. You get more accurate results and can feel more confident about your screening.

3D breast tomosynthesis takes X-ray images of each breast from many angles, unlike traditional mammography. The X-ray tube moves around the breast, taking 15 images during the exam. Those images go to a computer, where they create a 3D picture of the breast. The result is a clearer image that helps health providers find tumors better. You're also less likely to need to come back for more imaging.

What to Expect

Your mammogram will take about 20 minutes. When you come, plan to undress above the waist and put on a gown.

A VHC Health technician will place your breast between the two plates of the mammogram machine. One plate takes images of the breast while the other holds it in place to keep the images as clear as possible. Tell your technician if you feel discomfort or pain.

Screening Mammogram Results

A screening mammogram looks for problems before you have symptoms (like a lump). Expect your results within one workday of your mammogram. Your primary care doctor will also get the results within 24 hours.

Diagnostic Mammogram Results

If your breast has a lump or other signs of a problem, your doctor will order a diagnostic mammogram. It takes place at the Women’s Imaging Center at VHC Health as soon as possible. A radiologist will review the results right away. You’ll receive any follow-up tests you need during the same appointment. So, you enjoy convenience and peace of mind.

Follow-Up Tests

Based on your results, your family or personal health history, and other factors, your doctor may recommend more tests, like a breast MRI.

Get a Free Breast Cancer Risk Assessment

Take a short, secure health survey before your mammogram to help us give you the best care. This free, optional tool partners with Ambry CARE, a trusted leader in cancer risk assessment.

How It Works

You'll receive a link by text or email five days before your appointment. When you take the survey, you'll get results in your MyVHC patient portal.

Frequently Asked Questions