Do you dread your annual mammogram?

Ever find yourself avoiding your mammogram because you dread the discomfort? Now there's a way to soften the experience and it's only available at United General Hospital.

Our Breast Care Suite offers the the Soft Touch Mammogram, with a foam pad that serves as a cushion between you and the mammography system. So you can relax, knowing your mammogram will be soft, warm and comfortable.

The Breast Care Suite at United General Hospital is a certified Pink Ribbon Facility, a distinction awarded only to an elite group of health care facilities that offer digital mammography, excellent customer service, and Soft Touch Mammograms.

"The discomfort many women feel during mammography compression is widely known to be a reason that some don't get regular screenings," says Angie Wilkerson, Director of the Breast Care Suite at United General Hospital.  In addition to compression, the cold surfaces and hard edges of the mammography device make the experience uncomfortable for some patients.

"The breast cushion answers these complaints by providing a soft warm cushion for the breast during mammography," says Angie.  "And because women are more relaxed during the exam, it makes it even easier for our mammography technologists to get the best possible image."

The single-use, adhesive-backed foam cushion attaches to the compression plates of the mammography device. It was developed by Stanford University breast surgeon Gale Lebovic, M.D., who understood mammography discomfort from both a physician and patient's point of view. 

The recyclable breast cushion is "invisible" to X-rays and does not interfere with the image quality of the mammogram.

"We try to create the best possible experience for our patients," says Angie. "We're pleased to be able to offer our patients this important enhancement."

Mammograms save lives through early detection.
The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for women over the age of 40. With the digital mammography system in our private Suite -- and the new Soft Touch Mammogram-- you can be comfortable during the exam and confident of the results.

Schedule your Soft Touch Mammogram by calling (360) 856-7244. A doctor's referral is not required. Questions? Please send a message.