Why Choose Trinity Health for Mammography?

Our radiologists and technologists combine compassion and diagnostic expertise to deliver a comfortable care experience and the best health outcomes possible. We offer:

• Latest technology: We offer 3D mammography, the most advanced digital breast imaging technology available, in addition to traditional 2D mammography. As the first breast imaging center in North Dakota to offer digital mammography, we lead the way in leveraging technology to drive care decisions.
• Team approach to care: Our radiologists work with primary care providers within and outside of Trinity Health to offer mammograms. They collaborate closely so your doctor can share the results of your mammogram with you and discuss next steps.
• Eased access: A physician referral isn’t necessary; simply call to schedule an appointment.

3D Mammography

3D mammography, or digital breast tomosynthesis, provides more detailed images of breast tissue and masses than traditional 2D mammography and uses lower doses of radiation. 3D mammography takes multiple cross-sectional images of the breasts, instead of a single picture as with traditional mammography.

A computer combines the pictures to create a 3D image of the breast so radiologists can see the tissue layer by layer and in fine detail. This three-dimensional picture makes it easier for doctors to see signs of breast cancer, even within dense breast or overlapping tissue.

Combining 3D mammography with 2D mammography offers more accurate detection breast cancer, especially in those with dense breast tissue. It also reduces the need for follow-up imaging, which saves your time, money and emotional health — as additional imaging can lead to increased anxiety — and reduces radiation exposure.

When Should I Start Getting Mammograms?

Breast cancer and imaging experts across the United States don’t agree on when women should start getting mammograms and on what frequency. While many women choose to begin at age 40, some women wait until age 50. And others start earlier because of certain factors, such as their medical and family history.

At Trinity Health, we understand that this lack of agreement can feel confusing and make it challenging to determine the right timing and schedule for you. Our doctors are here to help you decide, based on the benefits and harms of screening as well as your medical and family history and wishes.

Talk to One of Our Doctors

To talk to one of our doctors about mammography, call 701-418-8000 to make an appointment. To schedule a mammogram at one of our Minot locations, call 701-857-2640, or to schedule at our Williston location, call 701-774-0810.

What to Expect

It’s normal to feel anxious before a mammogram, between undergoing the test and receiving the results. Mammograms take about 30 minutes to complete, from start to finish, and the scan itself takes only a few minutes.

• You will stand in front of a special X-ray machine designed specifically for mammograms. The machine has two surfaces, and a technician will position one of your breasts on the lower of two surfaces and adjust it to your height. They will also position other body parts so they don’t interfere with the image.
• The upper surface will slowly lower and press the breast between the two surfaces to spread out the breast tissue. Spreading out the tissue allows your doctor to see as much of it as possible. The surfaces will remain together for a few seconds during which you may experience some discomfort. If it’s too much, feel free to let the technician know.
• The technician will instruct you to hold still and hold your breath during the scan. Even the slightest movement can blur the image, so it is important to hold still. You’ll repeat the process for your other breast.
• The technician will check the quality of the images while you wait. If the images are unclear, then the technician ask you to stay so they can repeat part of the test.
• A radiologist will review your X-rays to look for signs of breast cancer. These signs include abnormal tissue, changes in breast tissue from previous mammograms and differences between each breast. The radiologist will send the results to your doctor, who will then share them with you.

Abnormal mammograms

If your mammogram results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend additional testing to diagnose or rule out breast cancer. Your doctor may also ask about your personal and family medical history and recommend a physical exam.

Our Breast Imaging Locations

At Trinity Health, we believe in making important screenings as convenient as possible for you. We offer 3D mammography at our locations in Minot and Williston.

Trinity Health Medical Arts
400 Burdick Expressway E
Minot, ND 58701
Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday

Directions to our clinic

Trinity Health Western Dakota
1321 W. Dakota Parkway
Williston, ND 58801
Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday

Directions to our clinic

Schedule a Mammogram

To schedule a mammogram in one of our Minot locations, call 701-857-2640. To schedule a mammogram at our Williston location, call 701-774-0810.

If you haven’t gone through menopause yet, we recommend scheduling your mammogram for a time during the week after your menstrual period. During this time, your breasts are usually least sensitive and, therefore, a mammogram will most comfortable.

Please bring a government-issued photo ID and insurance cards to your appointment. Please arrive 15 – 20 minutes before your scheduled appointment time so you can complete necessary paperwork.

Before your appointment

To ensure that your mammogram is as quick and easy for you as possible, please:

• Bring previous mammogram images. If you underwent previous mammograms at another facility, please ask for those images to be saved on a CD. Bring the CD with you to your appointment so the radiologist can compare the past images with the new ones.
• Do not apply beauty products under your arms. Products to avoid applying before your test include antiperspirant, deodorant, lotion or cream, and powder. Certain ingredients in these products can interfere with the images.
• Wear a two-piece outfit. You’ll be asked to remove any clothing you’re wearing from the waist up, as well as necklaces.
• Consider taking an over-the-counter pain medication. Taking acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen about an hour before your mammogram may help to reduce any discomfort you may feel during the mammogram.