The National Programme for Breast Cancer Screening consists of taking breast X-rays, also known as a mammogram. This involves compressing the breasts between 2 plates. This spreads out the breast tissue. This is the best way to see any abnormalities. A mammogram is sometimes experienced as painful. On this page, we provide more information about this. Participants and professionals also share their experiences.
Measured experiences
Undergoing a mammogram is a personal experience. Each participant experiences it differently.
Studies show that participants give an average pain score of 4 on a scale of 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain imaginable).
Out of every 5 participants, 2 scored (almost) no pain, 2 moderate pain and 1 severe pain.
Of the 100 participants, 98 experienced the screening test as bearable.
Of the 100 participants, 2 experienced the breast screening test as extremely painful, with a score of 9 or 10 on the scale from 0 to 10.
The figures above were collected in a Dutch study. However, similar scores were also found in a survey conducted during population screening in Norway. The average pain score was between 2 and 3.
Factors in pain sensation
Different factors may influence the breast screening experience. The sensitivity of the person's breasts plays a role. This may vary from time to time, for example due to hormonal fluctuations.
The way the employee handles your breasts is also important. Employees are trained to conduct the screening test as best they can.
A recent study conducted by the Centre for Population Screening shows that participants gave the pain experience a 7.
Tips for more comfort
The tips below can help make the breast screening test more comfortable.
Time of the appointment
When you receive the invitation letter for the screening test, you can choose an appointment time. Some women have very sensitive breasts just before or during menstruation. If that is the case for you, then you should schedule the appointment before or after your menstrual period.
Report your concerns in advance
The staff at the screening site try to make the screening test as comfortable as possible. If you have any concerns or uncertainties, please inform the employee taking the breast X-rays in advance. This allows them to take these into account during the screening test. This also applies if you have physical issues.
Other physical issues are sometimes mentioned as an additional burden when the X-rays are taken, for example, if you have difficulty standing. It is therefore important to indicate that you have such problems.
Talk to people around you
It may make sense to talk to people in your area about the breast screening test. Specific questions often help better than asking for a general impression. By talking, you can exchange information, knowledge, and experiences. Ultimately, use your own experience. By sharing your own experience after you participate, you can in turn help others.
Additional tips
Maintaining a relaxed posture may help during the breast screening test. You can try abdominal breathing or keeping your upper body relaxed. A relaxed posture can reduce the burden of the screening test. Examples of abdominal breathing practice can be found on the Internet.
We encourage participants to get information from reliable sources. The aim of RIVM is to provide balanced and accurate information, partly based on current scientific knowledge and guidelines. We also share other participants’ experiences here. If you have a personal question, please contact your GP.
Candid stories about the breast cancer screening test
Participating in the breast screening test can be stressful. You may worry about the test itself, and waiting for the results can be stressful. That is why the Centre for Population Screening has created a special web page where women share their experiences and talk about the practicalities of the screening test.