A women’s imaging center offers a variety of diagnostic tests that are specific to women’s health. Because women have different body structures and health concerns than men, an imaging center that focuses on the female anatomy, emotional and psychological constitution of women is a wonderful concept. By providing a variety of different breast, bone, and gynecological scans, and making scheduling recommendations, women’s imaging centers can help women diagnose diseases early. They are also diagnostic hubs for women who are pregnant and require regular monitoring.
What Services are Offered at a Women’s Imaging Center?
A women’s imaging center may provide a variety of imaging tests specific to the female body. The following are some of the most common services offered at a women’s imaging center:
Mammogram
A mammogram is an imaging test for women that takes an advanced X-ray of the breasts to detect early signs of breast cancer that a person may not feel when doing a self-check. That is why regularly getting a mammogram, especially after the age of 40, is essential in helping catch breast cancer in its early stages. Getting mammograms on a regular basis can help diagnose breast cancer three years before it can be felt by touch.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound produces live, real-time digital pictures. A pelvic ultrasound shows the female pelvic organs like the uterus, cervix, vagina, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It uses a small probe to transmit sound waves into the body and record the sound waves that echo back. As the technician moves the probe over the patient’s body, images display on a computer screen. Ultrasounds do not use radiation, making them the preferred method to observe pregnant women. Doctors also use ultrasounds to observe a person’s abdominal organs, muscles, and breasts.
Bone Density Scan
Women are two times more likely than men to experience a fracture related to osteoporosis in their lifetime. They also tend to have thinner, smaller bones, and experience a decline in estrogen (which protects bones) as they get older. That is why it’s important for women to check their bone density regularly after menopause. A bone density scan can detect osteoporosis early on, and also determine whether a patient’s bones show weakening or fragility that may require treatment. A baseline bone density test may be recommended before the onset of menopause.
Breast Needle Biopsy
A breast Needle biopsy is performed when a mass, or other abnormality is found in the breast on imaging. It is usually done to see whether the mass is cancerous. While breast biopsies aren’t a medical imaging service, they are often driven by an imaging test like mammography or ultrasound, , or MRI and are therefore performed at a breast imaging center.
Breast MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technology used to create a detailed image of the breasts in order to diagnose disease. It uses a combination of magnets and radio waves to capture hundreds of images of breast tissue at once. These images are used to create a 3D image of the breast. Injection of an MRI specific dye is needed for a breast MRI. This tool can be used for screening in a specific population or for diagnostic purposes.
Should I Go to a Women’s Imaging Center?
Mammograms, breast ultrasounds, MRIs, and biopsies may be scary, but having them when your physician recommends them, or on your regular schedule is crucial to maintaining good health as you get older. A women’s imaging center can be an excellent option for women looking for services tailored to their bodies’ specific needs. Many women prefer these centers as they also tend to provide a more comforting and understanding environment for women. At Connecticut Breast Imaging highly trained breast radiologists interpret various imaging modalities, and perform biopsies. If you need medical imaging, schedule your visit today at Connecticut Breast Imaging by calling (203) 426-3002.
