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What Are X-Rays?

An X-ray is a kind of picture. A mammogram is a kind of X-ray. It takes a picture of your breast to help find breast cancer. The person who takes X-rays is called a technologist.

When you have an X-ray, you may wear a hospital gown. The technologist may ask you to wear a special heavy shield.

X-rays are safe for most people, but they can harm an unborn baby. Tell the technologist if you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant.

 

Publication Source: Medicaid/Spring 2005
Author: Deden, Sandra
Online Source: National Women's Health Information Centerhttp://womenshealth.gov/faq/mammography.htm
Online Source: Radiological Society of North Americahttp://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/safety/index.cfm?pg=sfty_xray
Online Editor: Sinovic, Dianna
Online Medical Reviewer: Cutter, Darren M., MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Foster, Sara, RN, MPH
Date Last Reviewed: 1/16/2012
Date Last Modified: 2/27/2012
Copyright Health Ink & Vitality Communications
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