Breast Health and Imaging Services
Taking care of your breast health starts with understanding your risk, staying current on screenings and knowing where to turn for answers. At OSF HealthCare, our breast health services support you at every stage – from routine screenings to advanced diagnostic imaging and, if needed, treatment planning.
You have access to experienced teams and advanced breast imaging services, including options for dense breast tissue. Whether you’re scheduling an annual screening or following up on a provider recommendation, we provide clear guidance, compassionate care and reliable breast screening options to help detect concerns early.
Breast Screening and Diagnostic Options
Regular breast screenings play an important role in protecting your health. Screening exams are routine tests you schedule on your own when you do not have symptoms. If you are experiencing breast changes, or your provider recommends additional imaging, you may need diagnostic testing, which requires a referral.
OSF HealthCare offers a full range of breast imaging services to help detect and evaluate changes in breast tissue.
Mammograms
Mammograms use low-dose X-ray imaging to check for early signs of breast changes, often before symptoms develop. They are the most common and recommended breast screening tool.
Breast Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves instead of radiation to create images of breast tissue. It is often used to evaluate specific areas of concern or to provide additional detail after a mammogram.
Automated Breast Ultrasound
The Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS) is an advanced imaging device designed especially for people with dense breast tissue. It helps providers see areas that may be harder to detect on a mammogram alone.
Together, these breast screening options allow your care team to create a personalized approach based on your risk factors, breast density and medical history.
Understanding Breast Density
Breast density is a common and important part of breast health. If you have dense breast tissue, it simply means you have more fibrous and glandular tissue and less fatty tissue. Dense tissue is normal, but it can make it harder to detect changes on some imaging tests.
Understanding your breast density can help you and your provider decide whether additional screening tools – such as ABUS – may improve early detection. Learning about your density and risk level helps you make informed decisions about your ongoing breast health services and screening schedule.
If Additional Testing is Needed
Sometimes breast imaging finds an area that needs a closer look. This is common and does not automatically mean something serious. Most follow-up testing identifies noncancerous conditions, but additional imaging helps your care team gather the information needed to give you clear answers.
If you need diagnostic imaging, your care team will guide you through next steps, answer your questions and help coordinate any recommended follow-up care. OSF HealthCare focuses on providing timely appointments, clear communication and compassionate support so you feel informed and reassured throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does breast imaging use radiation?
Some breast imaging tests, such as mammograms, use a small amount of radiation that is considered safe and carefully monitored. Other imaging tests, including breast ultrasound and ABUS, use sound waves instead of radiation. Your care team will recommend imaging based on your personal risk and health history.
What happens if my imaging shows something unusual?
If an imaging test identifies an area that needs further evaluation, your provider may recommend additional imaging or testing. Many findings turn out to be harmless. Follow-up testing helps provide clearer answers and ensures you receive the right care if anything needs attention.
Who should I talk to about breast imaging or screening?
You can talk with your primary care provider or women’s health provider about your personal breast screening options and schedule. They can help you determine when to begin screening, how often you should be screened and whether additional breast imaging services may benefit you.