Its stillBreast Cancer Awareness Monthfor another day, but mammograms are important year-round.

But even with previous experience, mammograms can be sources of stress and anxiety.

What is a mammogram?

And even though mammograms do use a small amount of radiation, thatdoesnt mean theyre unsafe.

Are mammograms painful?

A2020 study published in the journal Radiographyfound that during a mammogram, some people experience more discomfort than others.

But there wasnt a correlation between breast size, breast density, or total compression force and pain.

The mammogram itself is not a painful procedure, Vaidya explains.

How can I prepare for my mammogram?

Habib Rahbar, clinical director of breast imaging at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance tells Lifehacker.

So dont worry about that.

What happens during a mammogram?

Everything starts with taking your clothes and undergarments off from the waist up and donning a breezy hospital gown.

Welllet the CDC take it from here:

You will stand in front of a special X-ray machine.

A technologist will place your breast on a plastic plate.

Another plate will firmly press your breast from above.

The plates will flatten the breast, holding it still while the X-ray is being taken.

You will feel some pressure.

The steps are repeated to make a side view of the breast.

The other breast will be X-rayed in the same way.

What happens if I need an ultrasound?

Sometimes, the radiologist will take a look at your mammogram and want to get some more information.

If this happens, dont panic.

There are several reasons why getting the a more detailed look atyour breasts and their blood flowmight be necessary.

For some other reason, the X-rays werent clear or left parts of the breast out.

Theres one part of your breast where the tissue looks different.

The radiologist spottedcalcifications or a mass(which could be a cyst).

If I know I have dense breasts, do I still have to do the X-ray part?

A common myth is that mammograms are not helpful in women with dense breasts, Rahbar explains.

Should I get my routine mammogram during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Screening mammography can save lives, you should continue to get your mammogram.

What if I cant afford a mammogram?

Medicare,Medicaid, and most private insurance companies cover the cost of mammograms.

you’re free to find out if youre eligibleon the programs website.

There are other statewide and local programs that also offer free or low-cost mammograms.

For some people, mammograms are no big deal.

But for others, theyre a major source of anxiety and physical pain (or at least discomfort).

Heres some more insight from people whove been through it.

Remember your first visit to the gynecologist?

Your first trip to the dentist?

Meredith Goldberg, author of

From Cocktails to Chemotherapy: A Guide to Navigating Cancer in Your 30s

.

Im honestly still in denial and praying for the day I become cancer-free.

I believe everyones experience can be different when they get their mammogram because our bodies are different.

Somewhat uncomfortable, but they were routine.

By getting a mammogram, you are being proactive and taking care of yourself.

Self care needs to be celebrated!

Sometimes you get lucky and they haveTheGolden Girlson loop!

Focus and breathe

Your mind may be racing, but attempt to stay in the moment.

You are where your attention is, Zaremba says.

Focus on what you are grateful for and breathe.

These mammograms save lives.