Mammography Services
Mammogram Services are available at the Women's Imaging Center of Saint Anthony's Health Center | #1 Saint Anthony's Way, Alton | 618/474-6152.
Our registered mammography technologists provide women with compassionate care and take time to fully explain the procedure and answer any questions or concerns. Saint 
Anthony's mammography services are fully accredited by the American College of Radiology, which signifies that our state-of-the-art equipment and our professionally-trained staff are of the highest quality.
Our technologists use MammoPad®, an FDA-cleared single-use, adhesive-backed foam cushion that attaches to the compression plates of the mammography device. Our new digital mammography system offers many conveniences – from very soft and slow application of breast compression for smooth positioning and increased patient tolerance, to having the digital images immediately available. Because digital mammography is faster, the time patients spend in an uncomfortable position is greatly reduced.
Women are able to self-refer for their mammograms as well – meaning a physician referral is not required.
The American Cancer Society guidelines for mammography screenings: Women, age 40 and older, should receive annual mammograms. In addition, all women should perform breast self-examinations - checking for lumps, thickness or other changes - every month.
Examinations should be done at a time when your breasts are less likely to be tender. If you have a regular menstrual cycle, you should examine your breasts at the end of your period and your self-examination should be done on the same day of each month. If you have any questions about how to conduct a breast self-examination, please contact your physician.
Saint Anthony's offers free breast self-exam kits to help women practice self-exam techniques. Call Saint Anthony's Health Resource Center at 618/465-2264.
Deodorant, powder or lotion should not be applied the morning of your appointment. Residue from deodorants and/or antiperspirants leave a residue, which can be detected by X-rays, thus distorting the mammogram.
Dress comfortably for your appointment. You might consider wearing a two-piece outfit, such as slacks or a skirt and blouse, for your convenience. You will be provided a hospital gown for the procedure.
If you have had a previous mammogram from a facility other than Saint Anthony's and are able to obtain copies of your films, please bring them at the time of your appointment for our radiologists to view.
Try to schedule your mammography appointment right after your menstrual cycle as the breasts are less sensitive at this time.
For information or to make an appointment, call 618/474-6152.