This might be a good time to mention that my last mammo (the one that found my still very small cancer) was also my very first mammo, so I am in support of starting at some point. I only did because almost 45 felt like a good time to start.

It also didn't really hurt.

I did my first, and so far only, mammogram at 40. I took an ibuprofen before I went and managed to schedule it at a time in my cycle where my breasts were least sensitive. (Mine get a bit sore during pms.) So with all that the squishing didn't really hurt. I'm also stacked like whoa so that probably helped.

My sister, who is 50, still hasn't had hers. I have to remember to nag her about that.

speaking of stacked, I feel I'm not getting the most out of my chiropractor because I simply cannot lay flat on the bench.

I hope I didn't come off as preachy. There's still a massive amount of med stuff I don't do that I should.

I guess what I am in favor of is having listened to the little voice in my head saying this would be a good time to do this for me.

Perkins, I'm glad you listened, and I'm vibing for you, and the birthday hug you'll get tonight will probably be squishier than a mammo.

Of which I've had one, which completely did not hurt at all, not even a little (and I'm not particularly stacked). I think a lot depends on the tech you have - mine was obviously very experienced and was able to get me in, get all the images she needed, and get me out again in five minutes. There was one weird angle that felt mildly uncomfortable, but for most of it the worst part was looking down and thinking, "My, this looks damn silly."

If you tell them ahead of time that you're nervous and you'd like to be scheduled with an experienced mammo tech who can do it quickly and with minimal discomfort, they should be able to check the tech shift schedule and accommodate you.

I don't have a GP either. I've spent the last YEAR being pregnant, so when would I have time to see a doctor other than my OB?

Still, I should probably get on that after this baby is born.

JZ, insent.

I've had two mammos, and neither hurt. I did feel an odd pulling sensation going up my chest into my neck that wasn't exactly pleasant, but it didn't hurt.

Yeah, I need to find a GP also. It's been too long.

speaking of stacked, I feel I'm not getting the most out of my chiropractor because I simply cannot lay flat on the bench.

My massage person would give you a rolled up towel that went on the table right above your boobs and it relieved the pressure a ton.

I have an assigned doctor, and I think it's a GYN, but I haven't gone yet. Transportation issues make it a hassle to go on a work day, so I'm thinking about taking a sick day and doing that and the dentist and maybe the vet, but I feel like I can't take another day off for a while. Good times.

Though, my sister said it hurt, using a colorful metaphor.

I'm pretty sure it's not an actual wringer, right??