Mammogram

At LVHN, you benefit from the experience of our dedicated Breast Health Services team. We performed more than 140,000 mammograms and breast ultrasounds last year alone at locations throughout the region. This level of care leads to accurate testing and recommendations you can trust.

Expertise: Certified mammography technicians perform your test, and a radiologist specializing in breast imaging provides the results.

Quality: The American College of Radiology® has recognized LVHN as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. This designation means we deliver safe, accurate breast cancer screening.

Technology: Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute was the first cancer center in the region offering 3D mammograms (tomosynthesis). This advanced imaging technology allows us to examine breast tissue layer by layer, helping us pinpoint abnormalities with a high degree of accuracy. 3D mammograms are available in select Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute locations.

Easy access: Our mobile mammography coach is a private center on wheels – with a team of breast imaging specialists on board. The coach makes it possible to receive a 3D mammogram at locations throughout the region.

Convenience: You do not need a prescription or doctor referral if you are at least 40 years old and have not had a screening in the past year.

Mammograms for uninsured and underinsured: Uninsured and underinsured women, may qualify for a free screening at Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) Breast Health Services locations. This program is offered as part of the Pennsylvania Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (PA-BCCEDP), and is available to eligible residents who live in counties served by LVHN, as well as by the Allentown Health Bureau for residents who live within the city of Allentown. Please call 888-402-LVHN (5846) to make an appointment. Appointments are required and limited. Visit PA-BCCEDP to learn more. 

What is the right age for a mammogram?

We may recommend regular mammograms for some women before age 40 if there is a higher than normal risk of breast cancer.

What if I am at high risk for breast cancer?

Our high-risk breast cancer clinic cares for all women at high risk, including those who carry a known genetic mutation. You meet with a nurse whose expertise includes genetics and breast cancer. We develop a personalized plan with recommendations so we can monitor your risk.

Learn more about our cancer risk and genetic assessment program.

Mammograms and the COVID-19 Vaccine

While earlier guidance recommended scheduling your mammogram before or four to six weeks after any COVID-19 vaccine dose or booster, this is no longer the case.

At this time, individuals are encouraged to promptly schedule any recommended mammograms (screening or diagnostic), regardless of their vaccination history and timeline. While false positives are possible, they can be ruled out quickly. Also, mammograms are one of the most important tools for identifying cancer and should not be delayed.

What to expect during your mammogram

We take X-ray images of your breasts from different angles.

• If you have no history of breast cancer: We share findings with your primary care physician or clinician within two business days.
• If we detect abnormalities: We recommend you come back for an additional test. We share the results with you immediately.
• If there is a breast cancer diagnosis: You meet with one of our nurse navigators right away. These dedicated breast cancer specialists provide you with information and support. We also discuss the next steps in your care, which may include a visit to one of our multidisciplinary cancer clinics.