Sister Mary Sabina Women's Health Center - Dignity Health - St. Mary Medical Center

Women’s imaging centers typically offer screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast ultrasound, bone density tests and, in some cases, breast biopsies. These imaging tests help detect breast changes early, evaluate symptoms such as lumps or pain and monitor breast health over time. Your doctor may recommend a specific test based on age, risk factors or symptoms. Imaging specialists work closely with your care team to ensure timely, coordinated follow-up.

Most women’s imaging services, including mammograms, require an appointment to ensure proper preparation and minimize wait times. Some centers may offer same-day or walk-in appointments for certain exams. Our women’s imaging center team at (562) 491-9000 can help schedule your visit, explain preparation steps and answer insurance or coverage questions before your appointment.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer outcomes are often better with early detection. Monthly self-exams and regular screenings can help detect breast changes sooner, which may lead to more treatment options.

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You can often schedule a routine screening mammogram without a doctor’s referral. Many insurance plans allow women over 40 to schedule these routine checks directly.

However, if you have symptoms or specific concerns, a doctor's order is typically required for a diagnostic mammogram, breast ultrasound or breast MRI.

You can also call the Women’s Imaging Center at St. Mary Medical Center at (562) 491-9000, and our team can help answer questions and assist with scheduling.

Our team will ask about your symptoms or medical history and will guide you through each step to help you feel comfortable.

For a mammogram, a technologist will position your breast in the mammography unit, and your breast will be gently compressed to get clear images. You may feel some brief discomfort, but it typically lasts only a few seconds. 

Most imaging exams take about 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the test. The exams are generally safe, use the lowest necessary radiation and are usually painless. You may need to lie still or change into a gown.

The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends women get a bone density test if they:

• Are age 65 or older

• Are of menopausal age with risk factors

• Are postmenopausal under age 55 with risk factors

• Break a bone after age 50

You may also need a bone density test if you have any of these:

• An X-ray of your spine showing a break or bone loss in your spine

• Back pain with a possible break in your spine

• Height loss of half an inch or more within one year

• Total height loss of 1.5 inches from your original height

Yes. Imaging centers follow strict safety guidelines to help make sure exams are performed safely. Technologists use the lowest radiation dose necessary for tests such as X-rays and CT scans. MRI and ultrasound do not use radiation. Your care team will review your medical history to ensure the exam is appropriate for you.

You can typically view your imaging report through your patient portal. We recommend discussing it with your health care provider, who can explain what your results mean for your health.

Many mammograms and other imaging exams are covered by health insurance plans, but coverage can vary by plan and test. We recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific coverage details before your appointment.

Please call our imaging center staff at (562) 491-9000 to help verify your insurance coverage and benefits before your appointment.

Yes. The Women's Imaging Center at St. Mary Medical Center offers free breast cancer screening and diagnostic services through the Every Woman Counts program to medically underserved, low-income women in California.