Mammograms

In 2002 I had a mammogram, because of the density of my left breast I had a sonogram and a spot compression done.  Everything came back normal.  This past year I went for a mammogram and the same thing I needed to go back for another spot compression on my left breast(different view from the previous year.)  The radiologist said it was normal but wants me to have another spot compression in 6 months to make sure there are no changes.  After that I can go back to once a year.  My questions...is this a normal procedure and when I go back in 6 months that will make 7 views of my left breast in 2 years, is that excessive?
Thank you for your time.

Donna

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear Karen D:  If they are asking you to return in 6 months, I would be concerned that there is something that they wish to monitor.  I would ask for clarification on this.  If your breasts are dense, this can make mammography difficult to read.  In these cases, if anything is questionable a spot compression is appropriate.