Understanding Your Mammogram Results

At Columbus OBGYN, we understand that navigating your breast health can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to support you every step of the way. From your initial mammogram to discussing your results and beyond, we are committed to making sure you feel informed, cared for, and confident in your journey.

What Happens After Your Mammogram

After your mammogram, our team takes the time to review your results thoroughly. Whether your results are normal or require additional follow-up, we’ll keep you informed and guide you on the best next steps. Here’s what you can expect:

If Your Results Are Negative

At Columbus OB/GYN, your health and peace of mind are our priority. If your mammogram results are negative, it means no abnormal breast changes or signs of cancer were detected during the screening. Mammogram results are classified using the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS), and a negative result falls under BI-RADS category 1.

What Does a Negative Mammogram Result Mean?

  • Your breast tissue appears symmetrical and normal.
  • No lumps, unusual structures, or suspicious calcifications were identified.
  • You can confidently continue with your regular mammogram screenings as recommended.

Routine mammograms are a crucial part of preventive care, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. If you have questions about your results or next steps, our team is here to help.

If Your Results Are Positive

At Columbus OB/GYN, we understand that receiving a positive mammogram result can feel overwhelming. A positive result doesn’t always mean cancer; it simply means additional follow-up is needed to better understand your results. Our team is committed to providing clear guidance, compassionate care, and support throughout this process.

What Happens Next

Review and Recommendation

Your provider has thoroughly reviewed your results. Based on the radiologist’s recommendations, additional diagnostic imaging has been requested. This review typically takes no more than 48 hours, and we monitor the process closely to prevent delays.

Referral Coordination

We’ve sent your imaging order to a trusted diagnostic facility and ensured they have everything needed to proceed with your care. If you experience any challenges scheduling your appointment, please let us know—we’re here to help.

Specialist Consultation

You’ll meet with one of the diagnostic specialists within our trusted network to complete follow-up testing. These specialists are highly experienced in providing the advanced imaging and care you may need, ensuring a thorough and accurate evaluation.

Ongoing Support

As you proceed with follow-up imaging, our team will stay involved. We’ll check in with both you and the facility to monitor progress and address any questions or concerns. Once your results are ready, we’ll review them with you and discuss the next steps, so you feel confident and supported throughout the process.

We Support You Throughout Your Journey

Regardless of your mammogram result, know that we’re here to guide you with compassion and expertise every step of the way. While our focus at Columbus OBGYN is on screenings, we work with a trusted network of diagnostic specialists to ensure you get the care and answers you need.

Connecting You to the Right Care:

We’ll refer you to one of our accredited diagnostic partners and help coordinate your next steps.

Ongoing Support

Even if further evaluation happens outside our office, we’ll stay in touch to monitor your progress and ensure you’re never left wondering what comes next.

Clear Communication

Once your follow-up results are available, we’ll reach out to discuss the findings and help you understand what they mean for your health.
At Columbus OBGYN, your care doesn’t end with a referral. We’re by your side to provide the guidance and reassurance you deserve.

Understanding Dense Breast Tissue

During your mammogram, your breast density will be assessed and included in your imaging report. If you have dense breast tissue, we’ll explain what that means for your breast health and answer any questions you have.

Dense breast tissue is common, but it can make it harder for a mammogram to detect certain changes. If additional imaging is recommended, we’ll discuss options like ultrasounds or MRIs to give you the clearest understanding of your breast health.

A Lifelong Partnership in Breast Health

At Columbus OBGYN, we see breast health as more than a yearly mammogram—it’s a lifelong journey, and we’re honored to be your partner every step of the way. Whether your results are routine or require further attention, you can trust us to provide compassionate care and expert guidance, helping you achieve the best possible outcomes.

Have questions about your mammogram results or what to expect next? Contact us today. We’re here to help.

Understanding Your BI-RAD Mammogram Results

The Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) has been used by the American College of Radiology since the 1980s as a standardized approach to mammogram reporting. BI-RADS helps radiologists communicate findings clearly and consistently, making it easier for patients and non-radiologist doctors to understand the results and next steps.

BI-RADS tells radiologists how to describe mammogram findings. This includes descriptions (and examples) for:

BI-RADS also suggests a template for radiologists to use when they report findings. Expect your mammogram report to cover these topics in order:

What Do My Mammogram Results Mean?

The Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) assigns a category number between 0 and 6 to summarize the findings from your mammogram. This system provides a clear and consistent way for radiologists to communicate their observations and guide the next steps in your care.

BI-RADS Categories and What They Mean:

Category 0: Incomplete

  • Indicates that the test was inconclusive or incomplete.
  • This may happen if the images were unclear due to movement or if additional images are needed for comparison.

Category 1: Negative

  • No signs of breast cancer were detected.
  • Your mammogram shows normal breast tissue with no abnormalities.

Category 2: Benign

  • Noncancerous findings, such as calcifications, cysts, or normal tissue variations, were observed.
  • These findings are harmless and do not require additional testing.

Category 3: Probably Benign

  • The findings are most likely noncancerous, with less than a 2% chance of being cancer.
  • Follow-up imaging, typically within six months, is recommended to monitor for any changes over time.
At Columbus OBGYN, your care doesn’t end with a referral. We’re by your side to provide the guidance and reassurance you deserve.

Abnormal Mammogram Results:

Category 4: Suspicious Abnormality

  • Indicates findings that could be cancerous, but the results are not definitive.
  • A breast biopsy is usually recommended to determine the nature of the abnormality.

Category 4 is further divided into three subgroups to describe the likelihood of cancer:

  • 4A: Low suspicion (2% to 10% chance of cancer).
  • 4B: Moderate suspicion (10% to 50% chance of cancer).
  • 4C: High suspicion (50% to 95% chance of cancer).

Category 5: Highly Suspicious

  • Indicates a very high likelihood of breast cancer, with at least a 95% probability.
  • A biopsy is strongly recommended to confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment.

Category 6: Known Malignancy

  • Noncancerous findings, such as calcifications, cysts, or normal tissue variations, were observed.
  • These findings are harmless and do not require additional testing.

What Does Your BI-RADS Number Tell You?

Your BI-RADS category helps determine your next steps, whether it’s routine screening, follow-up imaging, or additional testing like a biopsy. Understanding these categories ensures you and your doctor can make informed decisions about your care.

At Columbus OB/GYN, we’re here to guide you through this process, answer any questions, and provide the personalized care and support you need.