The week following my bilateral breast cancer diagnosis was a flurry of doctor’s appointments and tests. I had no idea what happens in a breast MRI and it was one of the first big scans that was scheduled for me. I’m hoping that this piece will help someone know what to expect and help them feel empowered – you can do it!
This video is my experience in my words:
*This is my experience, and might not be the experience of every patient.*
- The entire procedure took about 4 hours – from check in to leaving the facility.
- Ask if you can eat prior to your procedure. Even if they say “yes,” avoid a huge meal. The position in the MRI machine is on your stomach, so it would be very uncomfortable with a full belly.
- Find out if your MRI is with or without contrast (or both). If you are receiving contrast, it is with an IV so be emotionally prepared to have one.
- Stress relief hand sanitizer helps to keep me upright when getting an IV. I place my cupped hand a few inches in front of my face and take deep breaths to open my nasal passages and keep the blood flowing! I recommend this one from Bath and Body Works.
- As I mentioned, the MRI is on your stomach. I don’t know anyone that naturally lays on their stomach on a board for an hour – it’s very awkward. (I had assumed that I would be on my back.)
- There was a fan at the front (towards the head) of my machine – if you are cold-natured, ask for a blanket. The nursing staff is happy to accommodate.
- Be mentally prepared to coach yourself through the process. You CAN do it. You don’t want to have to return and start again.
I now understand why people say that MRI’s are a cause of such stress, but it truly is just a few hours of time. Think about it in terms of “every passing second is one step closer to done.” You can do it. I promise.
