Did you have a preventative medical procedure postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic?

If you did, youre not alone however, many people are now starting to reschedule those important and possibly life-saving measures as medical professionals get a better handle on pandemic safety protocols.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, but there are more than 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.

Thats bad news and good news all in one.

Experts say its essential to get your annual mammogram.

On Saturday, WTMJs Melissa Barclay will be receiving her first mammogram, leaving lots of questions on what to expect from the doctors visit.

Registered Nurse and Regional Survivorship Coordinator at Ascension Wisconsin, Laura Stratte says there are a few changes you need to know because of the pandemic.

Were having the patients right into the room where the mammogram machine is with the technologist. Youll change into a robe right in the room, and it will be just you and the technologist in the room, said Stratte.

Youll be standing up during the procedure and youll put your breast on a plate.

They can raise and lower it so its at the right level and then they bring another plate on top so theyre compressing your breast tissue.

The procedure takes about 20 minutes.

Stratte says at Ascension they recommend women start coming in for an annual mammogram at the age of 40 or earlier, depending on your familys history of breast cancer or a genetic mutations.

You can hear the full interview by clicking on the link above.

Read the original post:

Mammograms shouldnt be ignored because of COVID-19 - WTMJ