Susan's Place Transgender Resources

When you are advised by your physician to get a mammogram, do get one because we MTFs can get breast cancer.  The process does not take long. 

While it can be uncomfortable it is not that painful when your breasts are compressed to get the images.  Two images (front and side) are taken by a trained imaging technologist for each breast.  It is done in a very professional manner.


Chrissy

I delayed for a year at getting my first one, but have ever since gotten one every year since then. Last one occurring yesterday. Hugs
Mariah

I had my annual wellness exam last month and asked my doc if I should get a mammogram, but he didn't suggest it. He did give me a manual exam (same thing last year). I dread going, since I present male, but I feel like I need to soon. My breasts have been growing for a little over 2 years. There's a rule of thumb for when to get your first exam, but I'm not sure what it is. Perhaps someone will chime in with some info.

Quote from: Courtney G on January 16, 2024, 02:21:39 PMI had my annual wellness exam last month and asked my doc if I should get a mammogram, but he didn't suggest it. He did give me a manual exam (same thing last year). I dread going, since I present male, but I feel like I need to soon. My breasts have been growing for a little over 2 years. There's a rule of thumb for when to get your first exam, but I'm not sure what it is. Perhaps someone will chime in with some info.

My GP said to me when I asked the same question, 5 years on HRT before a mammography exam.  My spouse is a 2 time breast cancer survivor.  It is a subject near and dear to us.  This last time was brutal.  14 procedures to end it, with always the risk of return.

Quote from: Courtney G on January 16, 2024, 02:21:39 PMI had my annual wellness exam last month and asked my doc if I should get a mammogram, but he didn't suggest it. He did give me a manual exam (same thing last year). I dread going, since I present male, but I feel like I need to soon. My breasts have been growing for a little over 2 years. There's a rule of thumb for when to get your first exam, but I'm not sure what it is. Perhaps someone will chime in with some info.

Age for my doctor was the trigger and even then he waited tell the later end of the normal range to start on me. My spouse is not even 40 yet and hasn't had one yet. Her breasts are good size and she has been on hormones for like 6 years now. I suspect the trigger of when may differ by doctor, but that is what our primary care doctor uses to determine when to start having his patients get mammograms. Hugs
Mariah

I have a mammogram every two years and around 2008, I had mammogram and an abnormality was detected.  I attended an appointment where they inserted a needle into my left breast and did an aspiration on a cyst, end result I was clear of any possible cancer.

Here in Australia breast screening is free for us women and since I'm 65 I can still get a mammogram.  I just do it as part of my life.  I get reminders that I'm due for one and all I have to do is book an appointment, attend and wait for the results.

This is a story about me and my mum. On one occasion we both received screening letters and we both booked a time where we both went together.  I did tell mum about when I had a scare.  One of the few times I talked about my deeper personal issues.  The upshot of this was the following, well to me it was:

• Having a breast screening done. Cool.
• Having negative result coming back.  Excellent.
• Having mammogram with my mum.  Priceless.

The joys of being a women.

Kind regards to one and all
Sarah B

Quote from: Sarah B on January 16, 2024, 02:41:53 PMI have a mammogram every two years and around 2008, I had mammogram and an abnormality was detected.  I attended an appointment where they inserted a needle into my left breast and did an aspiration on a cyst, end result I was clear of any possible cancer.

Here in Australia breast screening is free for us women and since I'm 65 I can still get a mammogram.  I just do it as part of my life.  I get reminders that I'm due for one and all I have to do is book an appointment, attend and wait for the results.

This is a story about me and my mum. On one occasion we both received screening letters and we both booked a time where we both went together.  I did tell mum about when I had a scare.  One of the few times I talked about my deeper personal issues.  The upshot of this was the following, well to me it was:

• Having a breast screening done. Cool.
• Having negative result coming back.  Excellent.
• Having mammogram with my mum.  Priceless.

The joys of being a woman.

Kind regards to one and all
Sarah B

I love that you had the bonding experience with your Mom!  I found that with my stepmother, things only improved as she became an old lady.  Extremely abusing physically and mentally through the 60's, 70's and 80's somewhat unknown to Daddy.  Apparently, the stress of life raising a family was too much for her?  I'm just making excuses I suppose.  Additionally, I don't think she EVER had a mammography exam.  I didn't meet my birth mother until I was eighteen.  Another story for another day.

Richelle

Quote from: D'Amalie on January 16, 2024, 03:21:39 PMI love that you had the bonding experience with your Mom!  I found that with my stepmother, things only improved as she became an old lady.  Extremely abusing physically and mentally through the 60's, 70's and 80's somewhat unknown to Daddy.  Apparently, the stress of life raising a family was too much for her?  I'm just making excuses I suppose.  Additionally, I don't think she EVER had a mammography exam.  I didn't meet my birth mother until I was eighteen.  Another story for another day.

Richelle

I'm sorry that your childhood was not a happy one.  No you are not "making excuses", you did nothing wrong.  It was your stepmother from what I can tell was at fault.

Thank you for telling us a little about yourself it really is appreciated.  I should write a post about me and my mum, but I will leave that for another thread.

Hugs to one and all
Sarah B

I have had several mammograms since I transitioned. I would recommend every one that has  grown breast on HRT to have one on a regular basis.

I've had two mammograms so far, and thankfully, both have shown clear results. Most of my family members who passed away prematurely did so due to emphysema or lung cancer. This history heightens my awareness and vigilance about my health, making regular mammograms an essential part of my healthcare routine.

I had my first mammogram about two years after I started HRT. I think the real push for it was that I had scheduled a breast augmentation to coincide with bottom surgery, and they wanted to make sure all was well before surgery. Since then, I've had one every year. My mom had breast cancer about 10 - 12 years ago. Although they aren't my favorite activity, they could eventually save my life.

Love always -- Jessica Rose

I've had two mammograms. For all the complaining I had heard from other women, I thought it was going to be legitimate torture. Honestly, they're not that bad. A little uncomfortable at moments, but nothing even approaching painful.

I had my first mammogram a couple months ago.  The woman asked me where I normally go to get this done since it was my first time there, and I told her that, "Well, this is my first one."  The look of confusion was priceless, and it made me feel good.  I told her that (a) I was transgender, and (b) she was my new best friend  ;D

~Sara

Here, the recommendation is for women age 50-74 to have a mammogram every two years.  (Every year for age 40-49.)  The recommendation for trans women in those age ranges is to begin 5 years after starting HRT.

Because my breasts have "heterogeneous density", I have to have one every year.  I have had two so far.  The technicians have been very respectful.

On my first one, the tech was doing a short interview prior to the mammogram.  One of the questions she asked was, "Do you still have your uterus?"  I smiled and answered, "I never had one of those."  She went, "uh-huh" and started to note my response, and then did a priceless double-take: "Wait.  What??"  I savoured her reaction for a second or two before explaining.  We both had a chuckle about it.  Then she asked if I had implants.  Nope, 100% natural.  If I'd gotten implants, I wouldn't have gone with an A-cup!

My mother had breast cancer and a mastectomy when I was very young. Both parents died of cancer, as well as lots of cancer in the extended family. But everyone smoked - a lot. I don't smoke and I'm a light drinker, so my risk level is much lower. But I still have to be diligent.

I have large glands and dense breasts and my breasts are probably a C cup now. I worry that I'll need 3D or ultrasound mammography, which is more expensive. This is all something I'll be looking into over the coming months, with the goal of initiating a screening regimen this year.

I appreciate the input of others on this topic.

Quote from: Courtney G on January 17, 2024, 11:36:22 AMMy mother had breast cancer and a mastectomy when I was very young. Both parents died of cancer, as well as lots of cancer in the extended family. But everyone smoked - a lot. I don't smoke and I'm a light drinker, so my risk level is much lower. But I still have to be diligent.

I have large glands and dense breasts and my breasts are probably a C cup now. I worry that I'll need 3D or ultrasound mammography, which is more expensive. This is all something I'll be looking into over the coming months, with the goal of initiating a screening regimen this year.

I appreciate the input of others on this topic.

So sorry to hear your mother went through that. I hope you are able to find what you need in regards to getting a screening of yours. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: Courtney G on January 17, 2024, 11:36:22 AMMy mother had breast cancer and a mastectomy when I was very young. Both parents died of cancer, as well as lots of cancer in the extended family. But everyone smoked - a lot. I don't smoke and I'm a light drinker, so my risk level is much lower. But I still have to be diligent.

I have large glands and dense breasts and my breasts are probably a C cup now. I worry that I'll need 3D or ultrasound mammography, which is more expensive. This is all something I'll be looking into over the coming months, with the goal of initiating a screening regimen this year.

I appreciate the input of others on this topic.

Sorry Courtney that you lost your parents, I know what it is like to lose someone you love so much.

My mum smoked for over 20 years after cyclone Tracey 1994 (she gave it up) and got emphysema in addition in she had two lots of bowel cancer later on.  I cannot remember if she had any problems with her breasts.  She died about year and half ago.  I looked after her for 10 years.  Yes, it hurts still.  My grandfather also had emphysema.

I did not start breast screenings until about 2005.  Ever since I have a mammogram every two years.  It's doubtful I will ever get breast cancer because of my genes, but as they say, "you never know".  I have natural breasts and my size is 18C and at screenings I have never disclosed my past condition and when asked pertinent questions in regards to my mammogram.

Me personally, I have never smoked, I have been asthmatic since childhood and I rarely drink and only in the company of really close friends and family.

Best wishes always to one and all
Sarah B

I've had 3 mammograms. My first was back in 2019, and very affirming for me. The rest have been routine (every 2 years). So far, all have been clear.

My endo told me that she's going to want to send me for one probably in the coming year. Now that I've got visible breast tissue, and since we're upping my hormones, and because there's a history of breast cancer in my family (my mom).

I think this thread is a really good one for placement in the Health thread.  Thank you Susan and team.

Chrissy

Quote from: Courtney G on January 16, 2024, 02:21:39 PMI had my annual wellness exam last month and asked my doc if I should get a mammogram, but he didn't suggest it. He did give me a manual exam (same thing last year). I dread going, since I present male, but I feel like I need to soon. My breasts have been growing for a little over 2 years. There's a rule of thumb for when to get your first exam, but I'm not sure what it is. Perhaps someone will chime in with some info.

I cringed when I read what happened.  I don't know what to say here.  To me, I can understand having an annual examination.

However, you are a female and having a male doctor examine your breasts and a C cup at that, I'm sorry this makes my blood boil to put it mildly.

I know you dread going as a male and you mentioned you need to do something about it, I hope you do.

All I see is a female in your avatar,  In other words you would present to the world as a wonderful lady.

Best wishes for the future
Sarah B

Quote from: Sarah B on January 18, 2024, 02:25:54 AMI cringed when I read what happened.  I don't know what to say here.  To me, I can understand having an annual examination.

However, you are a female and having a male doctor examine your breasts and a C cup at that, I'm sorry this makes my blood boil to put it mildly.

I know you dread going as a male and you mentioned you need to do something about it, I hope you do.

All I see is a female in your avatar,  In other words you would present to the world as a wonderful lady.

Thank you, Sarah, for the support and the kind words. I honestly didn't mind the exam too much. He did the same last year: I just laid on my back and he quickly and gently palpated around each breast. I've been seeing him for many years, so I was as comfortable as I could be. That said, I feel that maybe I should switch to a female doc...I'm just not sure right now.

When I changed my gender marker on my NHS records I automatically got picked up by the national screening program and currently  have had 1 mammogram in Aug 2022, first and last under that system as it stops at 71, though 1 am still entitled to one every 3 years I will now have to request it manually. My next one will be next year but I will have to ask for it.

I too had the questioning as to why I do not have any records of previous ones and was it my first one. I explained I was a transgender woman, she was both surprised, kind and helpful. I did not find it too unpleasant and not as bad as Shirls always goes on about. She calls them squashagrams then again she is a big lady. I was only a B/C cup at the time

I was all clear, and I do check myself regularly. We have the same risks as any other woman so it is important that it is checked. I am too old to be screened for cervical cancer by a smear test that ends at 64, so I have been spared the embarrassment of declining that.

Hugs
Jessica xxx

Quote from: Mariah on January 16, 2024, 02:13:49 PMI delayed for a year at getting my first one, but have ever since gotten one every year since then. Last one occurring yesterday. Hugs
Mariah

Mariah,

I hope you also get a letter from the radiologist group (or whereber they did the mammogram) with an all clear message for you. 

Chrissy

I've had female GPs for the last 15 or so years.  Vastly preferred!  Always caring and professional.  Not looking forward to the squashograms.  But having seen the ravages of the disease, sign me up!

I'm feeling that I should switch to a female. This year, he didn't even check my prostate. I'm thinking he understands that it's pretty much a nonissue these days.

It was calming to see the mammogram results letter saying that there is no signs of breast cancer.  It did say that the mammogram does not detect everything, and if you feel any lumps in the future to contact your doctor.  I think that last part is boilerplate stated to anyone with good results but it is good advice.  If something that indicated breast cancer was seen from the mammogram I would not be writing this post and would be very nervous.  Thankfully, this was not the case.

So glad for you!  Keep on top of it.

I have had one every year for the last four years.  I actually go in a few weeks for another one.  I have a strong family history of cancer so it's yearly for me.  I had a male cousin die from breast cancer several years ago so I try to keep up on exams.

As for the pain I found it depends on which part of your cycle you are on when the exam happens.  I've had painful mammograms and non-painful ones.

As a tip do not wear deodorant to the exam.  It gives a false positive or something like that. 

Fantastic to know it all went well Chrissy. Xxx

Every girl should check themselves for any lumps or unusual changes at least once a week, daily even as part of getting dressed/undressed routine. It only takes a min at most.

I prefer seeing a female GP and my assigned GP is female, but we do not aways have a choice. My next appointment about cholesterol is Thursday with a male doc. But I would refuse to see a male doc for anything more than a simple review.

Hugs
Jessica xxx

If you have not scheduled your mammogram for this year, be sure to make an appointment if it is indicated or it is time soon to get it done.

Preventive health is important.  Consult your physician if you are not sure if this is something you should be doing or not.  Recommendations do change from time to time based on what the medical people think about what the proper time interval would be for your age or situation.

There may be a fear of not getting an "all clear" report.  Do the wise thing though.

Thank you for the reminder, ChrissyRyan. I shamefully admit that I actively resist mammograms and always drag my feet when the doctor encourages me to get it done. My problem with mammograms is that I fear for the stability of my 19 year old breast implants. I'm always terrified that one of them will rupture. I've had mammograms, and my implants have never ruptured. This is just my personal terror, I guess.

Don't be foolish like me! Take your health seriously and follow your doctor's recommendations! It's important.

Love! ❤️
Miharu

I don't even think that the ink was dry on my name/gender change before they were wanting me to take a mammogram and pap smear. I got the mammogram done but as I really haven't really had much in the way of breast development and no real sensitivity it didn't hurt that much.

I had a mammogram when I first started HRT. I asked the doctor about it and she said it was so they have a "baseline" on record. I suppose if I already had cancer before the HRT took effect, they could treat it right away and maybe postpone the meds. After that, I have had one every year, except last year. They changed my schedule to every two years since I am low-risk.

I wouldn't say it is painful. Certainly not comfortable getting squished, but not really painful.

Quote from: Lori Dee on January 17, 2025, 06:02:15 PMThey changed my schedule to every two years since I am low-risk.

They changed mine to every two years, too.  Not that I was considered high-risk, but my breasts had "heterogeneous density", which made it hard for the radiologist to see potential lumps.  So I was on an every-year schedule.  But apparently the density must have evened out enough that I can go on the same two-year schedule that applies to most women here.

Quote from: KathyLauren on January 18, 2025, 06:32:33 AMbut my breasts had "heterogeneous density"

Same here. The radiologist asked if I was taking estrogen. He said dense breasts are common for women on estrogen. He said they could order an ultrasound to determine if they need a biopsy if they find anything suspicious or if they can't see clearly enough.

I thought, why don't they use ultrasound as the default? Low radiation risk, clearer imaging, and no uncomfortable "squish". Plus you get someone to rub your boobs for you.  ;D

I had second thoughts on mentioning that I have Level C density as I did not want to scare off anyone to get her mammogram.  I am awaiting to see if an ultrasound or a more sophisticated 3D imaging procedure is now required. 

I am firm and perky but not big.  I am on the lower fullness side of a B cup.


Chrissy

In addition I have started again having tingling in my breasts.  This has led to growth spurts sometimes in the past.  But with this heterogeneous density I am a bit apprehensive.  I am wondering if estrogen should be reduced for me.  I will leave that up to my physicians.

I have been getting one for a few years now and today will be the next one. Hugs
Mariah

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on January 18, 2025, 09:36:10 AM. . . I am awaiting to see if an ultrasound or a more sophisticated 3D imaging procedure is now required. . .

Chrissy

I will not need an ultrasound or a MRI because of dense breast tissue.  So I am relieved.

Quote from: ChrissyRyan on January 22, 2025, 08:03:06 PMI will not need an ultrasound or a MRI because of dense breast tissue.  So I am relieved.

Prioritizing your own good health. Well played!

Thank you, Chrissy Ryan, for setting a good example.

😊
Miharu

The girls have been growing so much since the dosage increase at the end of 2024, such wonderful progress. This is all such helpful info to keep in mind when it's time for my mammogram. I'll be bookmarking this conversation for later!

I was determined not to have one grrrr but one day i had to go to hospital because my cat bit through my finger and they were worried incase part of the cats tooth was inside so, off i went for an ex ray, whilst waiting the nurse came across and said we dont have any record of you having a screening test!! I said i am not that bothered needless to say my head was put in a yoke boobs squashed up against the screen,i thought they were trying to hang me

Quote from: kat2 on March 31, 2025, 04:11:37 PMneedless to say my head was put in a yoke boobs squashed up against the screen,i thought they were trying to hang me

I don't understand. Why was your head in a yoke? For a mammogram? I've had many mammograms and nothing ever touched my head. I am confused.  ???

@Lori Dee  @kat2
Dear Kat and Lori:
                  ??? ? head in a yoke ? ???

  I am likewise confused....  I have had 6 mammograms and never once was my head even touched...

  Kat: could you please tell us more about it? ???

HUGS, Danielle [Northern Star Girl]
   

Quote from: kat2 on March 31, 2025, 04:11:37 PMneedless to say my head was put in a yoke boobs squashed up against the screen,i thought they were trying to hang me

Quote from: Lori Dee on March 31, 2025, 05:18:22 PMI don't understand. Why was your head in a yoke? For a mammogram? I've had many mammograms and nothing ever touched my head. I am confused.  ???

Quote from: Lori Dee on March 31, 2025, 05:18:22 PMI don't understand. Why was your head in a yoke

The yoke was a Y shaped thing and my arms were behind my back,since i have never had a mamogram before or after i assumed that was normal, to make sure the patient did not move

I had a routine mammogram earlier this year and then, because of dense breast tissue, a specific diagnostic mammogram.

No further diagnostic procedures, such as a MRI or ultrasound, were needed.  I was relieved to get the all clear.


Chrissy

by medical history, transition age, Endo and primary care recommendation .. I have not had a mammogram done. I will not unless something causes concerns. I do occasional self-exam

Head in a yoke? Are you thinking of some other procedure perhaps?

My head has not been touched for a mammogram.

Chrissy

Diagnosed with 'dense breasts'? You may need more than a mammogram
Link to Full Article (https://www.npr.org/2025/04/21/nx-s1-5336241/dense-breast-mammogram-mri-cancer)
NPR - Yuki Noguchi
April 21, 20255:00 AM ET

About 40% of women fall into the categories ranging from dense to extremely dense breasts — putting them at higher risk of developing cancer, which is also harder to detect on 2D or even newer 3D mammograms.

As of September 2024, federal regulations began requiring all mammogram reports to include information about breast density, including language saying, "in some people with dense tissue, other imaging tests in addition to a mammogram may help find cancers."

But with 40% of women falling under these dense breast categories, when is magnetic resonance imaging, known as MRI, or other follow-up imaging a good idea?

It is a tough question to answer, and there is not a one-size fits all approach.

The U.S. Preventive Services Taskforce is the expert body that makes recommendations for primary care doctors and sets which screening tests should be fully covered by insurance. It says evidence is "insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of supplemental screening for breast cancer," including ultrasounds and MRIs, for women with dense breasts. Harms of additional screening could include subsequent testing such as biopsies and exposure to more radiation, if follow up x-rays are ordered.

--------------------

Read the full article for more information.

I used to be involved in contracts for mammography for a UK county. Some is done on fixed sites, but a lot is delivered using mobile units parked in towns so patients don't have to travel far.

The machines are all more or less the same and have a kind of flat surface you lean against with one arm raised while two acrylic plates first squeeze the breast horizontally and then vertically, which involves a change of position. Four shots are taken (horizontal and vertical for each breast) and while it isn't comfortable, it isn't so unpleasant I've heard of anyone not returning because it hurt too much.

For fit women I've not heard of a yoke being used and having often been in the mobile units because every couple of years there was one in our car park, I've never seen anything resembling one either. Even for patients who've lost the use of an arm, there's usually a second radiographer around to hold it out of the way, so I can't quite imagine why Kat had the experience she did. Weird!

Apart from dense breasts, the major issue is imaging the tail of the breast, which extends toward the armpit and dealing with smaller breasts, which are more difficult to trap between the plates. The fall back investigations are ultrasound and MRI but like X ray, both have their advantages and disadvantages.

The UK breast screening service makes provision for trans people and even has protocols for non-binary!

There's a separate protocol for people with augments because of implant rupture risk and the TL;DR is the least possible pressure between the acrylic plates is used. There's no evidence a mammogram has ever ruptured an implant, but a mammogram isn't a valid way of checking implant integrity either, so the advice is that if a rupture is suspected, a mammogram shouldn't be done. If a rupture is known to exist pre mammography there's an entire protocol called the Eklund technique. It's all pretty well sorted, considering.

I am glad that I did not need a MRI or ultrasound after I had to get a follow up diagnostic mammogram because of my dense breast tissue.

However an MRI is another valuable tool.

Thanks Lori for posting that MRI article.

Chrissy