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I didn't get a mammogram before IVF either. It didn't even come up with my dr? But I was only 28 during IVF so maybe that makes a difference? Good luck on your IVF cycle!!

I didn't have IVF, but I wanted to chime in because I got a mammogram (and breast ultrasound and MRI...) all before bfp in order to have a baseline scan--you can't get one while pregnant or breastfeeding, so my dr recommended getting it in before getting pregnant. I was only 29 when I got mine, but have family history that meant I was going to start getting scans at 30 anyway. All of the exams themselves were fine--not fun, of course, but the mammogram was actual the least uncomfortable for me. The worst part of all of it was actually the receptionists at the offices I went to--my insurance covered everything just fine, but the staff was determined to turn me away since I was so young, even with my referral. It was a major pain in the butt but I'm so glad to have it out of the way for a few years!

@Lilamo: Are you concerned about mammograms and the IVF process, or just wondering if you should do any of the screening at all? They always ask me if I might be pregnant before doing my mammogram, so I assume they take extra precautions to protect that area.

I'm in the "knowledge is power" camp, so I encourage you to do this! I'm currently going through this screening process myself, and like @nana87:, have come up to some resistance about what can be done. I've had two mammograms, two biopsies, and will be going in for an ultrasound this Wed.!

@Lilamo: it's totally understandable that you'd feel overwhelmed and anxious! Were they able to set a mammogram date for you?
Also, you should check out the IVF support thread. Really smart and caring women over there.

I did get one before starting IVF because my mom had breast cancer twice, at 39 and 60. I had my first mammogram at 30 and the one before my IVF at 34. My sister is a radiologist specializing in breast cancer and she is the one who suggested it. Neither my RE nor my GYN really thought it was necessary, but my GYN did put in the order for me anyway. I felt better knowing that I didn't have anything to be concerned about before starting all the medications.

@GreenThumb: you must be proud of your sister! Have you done genetic testing?

@Lilamo: I'm glad you have a date set. When I made an appointment on my own, they said they wouldn't touch me without a referral from my doctor. I had an ultrasound yesterday to double check that my mammogram is right b/c I have very dense breast tissue. My doctor said I should get checked twice a year. What state do you live in? Not all states are require to share a woman's breast density on her mammogram results, but it is an important thing to know. Check out the website areyoudense for more info--this was all new to me!