I've worked in the healthcare field for many years.
  During this time I've had many opportunities to talk with the doctors, nurses and technicians who work in the X-ray department that specializes in mammograms.
  Here is a list of the ten most important things that women should know about getting a mammogram.

1. This is the most important thing: have a yearly mammogram if you are over 40 years old or have a family history of breast cancer.
   
2. Go to an X-ray facility that regularly performs mammograms (at least 3-5 per day).
     This ensures that they have adequate experience in regularly dealing with mammograms.
     Ask to see their FDA certificate - this shows if they have met high quality professional standards.
   
3. Go to the same facility each year, if you are happy with the quality they provide.
     This way it is much more likely that the same people will look at your mammograms each year, and this makes comparing x-rays from prior years much more easy.
     If you go to a new facility, take copies of your old mammograms to the new place so they can easily compare the x-rays.
   
4. Medicare, Medicaid and most health insurance plans usually cover the costs of a mammogram up to a certain percentage.
     Low-cost mammograms are made available in some areas by the American Cancer Society.
   
5. Every mammogram facility must send your results to you within 30 days.
     If they find a problem they are to notify you within 5 days.
     Call your physician or the x-ray facility if you don't get your results within these time frames.
   
6. Less than 1% of mammograms will lead to cancer (only 2 to 4 out of 1000).
     10% of all women may require a second mammogram - and only 8-10% of these women will need a biopsy.
     80% of those biopsies will not be cancer.
   
7. You will have to undress down to your waist, but a wrap or gown should be provided for you.
   
8. Things that may interfere with a good mammogram are: deodorant, powders or creams under the arms.
     Avoid these things before a mammogram if you can.
   
9. Most mammogram x-ray technologists are women.
     The technologist will be the only one present during most of your mammogram.
   
10. Most mammograms take about 20 minutes to perform, including 2 views of each breast.
      There may be discomfort during the breast compression x-ray.
      Try not to schedule a mammogram during the week of your period.
      Let the technologist know immediately if there is pain during the procedure.
    

The summary is this: have regular, annual mammograms done each year!