For many women, the thought of getting a mammogram can feel intimidating. Maybe you have heard that it hurts. Maybe you are nervous about what the results could show or maybe you haven’t really thought about it because the idea of the appointment makes you uncomfortable.
Those feelings are understandable. However, sometimes, facing fear can be one of the most important things you do for your health. Mammograms can help detect breast cancer early, often before you can see or feel any changes, and when breast cancer is found earlier, there may be more treatment options available.
It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so let’s clear up a few common myths that may be making mammograms seem scarier than they really are.
Myth: Mammograms are extremely painful.
They may be uncomfortable, but the discomfort is usually brief. During a mammogram, the breast is compressed for a few seconds while images are taken. Everyone experiences it differently, but the pressure does not last long.
If you are nervous, tell your doctor. They perform mammograms every day and can walk you through the process, answer questions, and let you know what is happening along the way.
Myth: If I feel fine, I do not need one.
You can feel completely healthy and still benefit from routine screening. Breast cancer does not always cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. A mammogram may detect changes before you ever feel a lump or notice something different.
Feeling well is a good thing, but it should not be the only reason you decide whether to get screened.
Myth: A Callback means I have breast cancer.
Being called back for additional imaging does not automatically mean cancer. Sometimes the radiologist simply needs a clearer image or wants to take a closer look at an area. Dense breast tissue, overlapping tissue, or something that was difficult to see clearly can all lead to additional testing.
A callback can be stressful, however, try not to assume the worst.
Myth: I would rather not know.
Fear of the answer can sometimes keep us from getting the information we need. It is natural to worry about receiving bad news. However, delaying a screening does not change what may or may not be happening in your body.
Getting a mammogram does not mean something is wrong. It means you are taking care of yourself. Knowing gives you the opportunity to act.
Face the Fear for Yourself
Sometimes courage looks like making the appointment you have been avoiding. A mammogram may feel uncomfortable. You may feel nervous walking into the screening center. You may even be tempted to cancel, but those few moments of discomfort could provide valuable information about your health.
Early detection can save lives. Do not let fear make the decision for you. Talk with your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors and when breast cancer screening is right for you. If you are due for a mammogram, consider taking that next step.
Facing your fear today could help protect your tomorrow.
How AFSPA Can Help
Breast Cancer Screening
Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) members receive a $25 wellness reward for receiving a breast cancer screening.
FSBP’s Cancer Support Program
The FSBP‘s Cancer Support Program is designed to provide education and support to members.
We will contact candidates and ask them to participate in the Program. Participation is voluntary. The participant and his/her physician or other health care professional remain in charge of the treatment plan.
If you would like to contact the Plan for more information about this Program, please call 800-593-2354. We are available to assist you Monday-Friday from 6:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time (MST).
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2nd. MD
As part of your Foreign Service Benefit Plan (FSBP) benefits, you can get an expert second opinion from a leading specialist at no additional cost to you. Connect directly with experts by video from the comfort of home. Ask questions, get answers and feel empowered to make the best healthcare decisions.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
FSBP provides access to 2nd.MD services at no additional cost to you and your eligible dependents enrolled in FSBP.
The medical experts and dedicated health advisors at 2nd.MD will help FSBP members navigate the complexities of the health care system. Their goal is to provide better medical intelligence, preferred access to top-specialists and improved health outcomes. Some of the health issues and serious illnesses 2nd.MD can provide support for include:
HOW IT WORKS
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