mammography / OBSP

Operating Hours and Address

Monday to Friday : 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Saturday: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Address: 800 Bathurst St Unit 304, 3rd Floor, Toronto, ON M5R 3M8

+1 (416) 531 – 1128

mammography / OBSP2026-07-30T19:30:55-04:00

Patient Information

Mammography is a specific type of imaging that uses a low-dose x-ray system for examination of the breasts. Most medical experts agree that successful treatment of breast cancer often is linked to early diagnosis. Mammography plays a central part in early detection of breast cancers because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them.

Mammography is a specialized X-ray imaging test used to examine the breasts. It helps detect breast cancer and other breast abnormalities, often before symptoms develop.

  • Screen for breast cancer in people without symptoms.
  • Investigate breast changes such as a lump, pain, nipple discharge, or skin changes.
  • Monitor breast health in individuals at higher risk of breast cancer.

  • Each breast is placed on a flat support plate and gently compressed with a plastic paddle.
  • Images are taken from different angles.
  • The procedure usually takes 10–20 minutes, with compression lasting only a few seconds for each image.

Yes. Mammography is considered a safe and effective imaging test. It uses a very low dose of X-ray radiation, and the benefits of detecting breast cancer early generally outweigh the small risks associated with radiation exposure.

Safety Points

  • The radiation dose is very low and is carefully controlled to produce high-quality images while minimizing exposure.
  • Breast compression may cause temporary discomfort, but it is necessary to obtain clear images and reduce the radiation dose.
  • Mammography is routinely used worldwide for breast cancer screening and diagnosis.
  • If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your healthcare provider before the examination. Although the radiation dose is low, alternative imaging may be considered unless the test is medically necessary.
  • Individuals with breast implants can safely undergo mammography, but the technologist should be informed beforehand so that appropriate imaging techniques can be used.

Overall, mammography is a safe procedure that plays a vital role in the early detection of breast cancer, improving treatment options and outcomes.

  • Exposure to a very low dose of radiation.
  • Temporary discomfort or mild pain from breast compression.
  • False-positive or false-negative results may occur, requiring additional imaging or follow-up.

 

  • Avoid using deodorants, powders, lotions, or perfumes on the chest or underarms on the day of the exam, as they may affect the images.
  • Wear a two-piece outfit for convenience.
  • Inform the healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have breast implants, or have had previous breast surgery.
  • Bring prior mammogram images or reports if available.

  • Detects breast cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
  • Can identify small tumors before they can be felt.
  • Reduces breast cancer mortality through early detection.

  • You can return to your normal activities immediately.
  • A radiologist reviews the images, and the results are sent to your healthcare provider.
  • Additional imaging or tests may be recommended if an abnormality is detected.

mammography and Ontario Breast Screening Program

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+1 (416) 531 – 1128

OBSP Mammography

The Ontario Breast Screening Program is a screening program designed to encourage people to get screened for breast cancer.

Average Risk

From October 8, 2024, the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP) expands the screening program to people ages 40 to 49. This means that Ontarians (women, Two-Spirit people, trans people, nonbinary people and women with breast implants) can begin routine breast screening (Mammograms) without a referral between the ages of 40 and 74 if they:

High Risk

The Ontario Breast Screening Program recommends that people ages 30 to 69 who meet the High Risk Ontario Breast Screening Program eligibility criteria get screened every year.

How to Prepare for Mammogram

Please review the document for instructions on “How to prepare” for your upcoming test.

For valuable resources on cancer screening in Ontario, read the Cancer Screening Regional Resources Hub by Cancer Care Ontario. This hub offers comprehensive, up-to-date information on screening programs for various types of cancer, including breast, cervical, colon, and lung cancer. It provides educational materials such as fact sheets, posters for waiting rooms, social media graphics, and physician toolkits. These resources are designed to help both patients and healthcare providers stay informed about the latest cancer screening guidelines and practices. Access these essential resources to better understand cancer prevention and early detection efforts across the province.

More OBSP & Screening Information

Screening during pregnancy and lactation: Screening with mammography during pregnancy is safe and effective. If you do not want to get screened while you are pregnant, you can start screening 3 months after giving birth, even if you are still lactating. Contact your family doctor or nurse practitioner if you notice any changes in your breasts (chest), such as a lump or redness that does not go away, or changes to your nipple.

Book directly through the provincial OBSP line: Call 1.800.668.9304 (a referral from a family doctor or nurse practitioner is not required). Need this information in an accessible format? Call 1-877-280-8538, TTY 1-800-855-0511, or email info@ontariohealth.ca.

Guide to a Better Breast Screening Experience

  • If possible, obtain prior mammograms and make them available to the radiologist at the time of the current exam.
  • Before scheduling a mammogram, discuss any new findings or problems in your breasts with your doctor, and inform your doctor of any prior surgeries, hormone use, and family or personal history of breast cancer.
  • Where possible, avoid scheduling your mammogram for the week before your period if your breasts are usually tender during this time — the week after your period is often best.
  • Always inform your doctor, radiologist, and x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that you are pregnant.
  • Do not wear deodorant, talcum powder, or lotion under your arms or on your breasts on the day of the exam, as these can appear on the x-ray as “calcification.”
  • Describe any breast symptoms or problems to the technologist performing the exam.
  • Ask when your results will be available; do not assume the results are normal if you do not hear from your doctor.

Related Links

Frequently asked Questions

Can men have mammograms?2025-09-08T17:05:57-04:00

Yes, although breast cancer is less common in men, mammograms can be used for breast cancer screening in men with specific risk factors or symptoms.

Is mammography safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?2025-09-08T17:05:31-04:00

Mammography is generally safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding if medically necessary, although precautions may be taken to minimize radiation exposure.

Can mammography detect all types of breast cancer?2025-09-08T17:04:59-04:00

While mammography is highly effective, it may not detect all breast cancers, particularly in women with dense breast tissue. Additional imaging or screening methods may be recommended in such cases.

What if my mammogram results are abnormal?2025-09-08T17:04:43-04:00

An abnormal result may require further testing, such as additional imaging or a biopsy, to determine if cancer or other breast abnormalities are present.

Are there any risks associated with mammography?2025-09-08T17:03:55-04:00

Mammography involves exposure to low doses of radiation, but the benefits of early cancer detection far outweigh the risks.

Does a mammogram hurt?2025-09-08T17:03:08-04:00

The compression of the breast during a mammogram may cause temporary discomfort or mild pain for some women, but it’s usually brief.

How often should I have a mammogram?2025-09-08T17:02:51-04:00

The frequency of mammograms depends on individual risk factors and medical guidelines, but typically, women should have them annually or biennially starting at age 40.

what age should I start getting mammograms?2025-09-08T17:02:26-04:00

Guidelines vary, but generally, women should start getting regular mammograms at age 40 or earlier if they have specific risk factors.

How is a mammogram performed?2025-09-08T17:01:32-04:00

During a mammogram, the breast is compressed between two plates while X-ray images are taken from different angles.

Why is mammography important?2025-09-08T17:01:07-04:00

Mammography is vital for early detection of breast cancer, which significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates.

More About Breast Imaging

Learn more about breast imaging and screening:

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Read our guide on whether you need a referral for an X-ray, ultrasound, or mammogram in Toronto, including OBSP self-referral rules.

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