Pain with mammography: fact or fiction?

This article presents an overview of current knowledge about mammography-related pain and discomfort. Possible causes of pain and discomfort are discussed along with the results of two pilot studies that investigated the prevalence and severity of pain and discomfort associated with film-screen mammograms in a mobile screening program. Based on these studies, the authors conclude that pain is a problem for a significant number of women from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. A nursing care plan is provided to assist nurses in reducing mammography-related pain and discomfort.