Author: Arlene Weinshelbaum, MD

We are excited to announce that Dr. Arlene Weinshelbaum’s practice has been acquired by Doctors Imaging Group (DIG). This transition marks a new chapter in our commitment to providing exceptional breast imaging services to our patients. Her dedication to offering the highest quality and most advanced diagnostic breast imaging will continue under the DIG umbrella.

A Message from Dr. Weinshelbaum

Dear Patients,

I am writing to share an important and heartfelt announcement about the future of my practice, the Gainesville Women’s Center for Radiology. As of January 1, 2025, Gainesville Women’s Center for Radiology has been acquired by Doctors Imaging Group, LLC, a highly respected and patient-focused radiology practice with expertise in women’s imaging, including 3D mammography, breast MRI, breast ultrasound, and breast biopsy. As part of the acquisition, all patient records have been transferred to, and will be in the custody of, Doctors Imaging Group. I am pleased to inform you that I and the vast majority of the dedicated team at Gainesville Women’s Center for Radiology will remain on staff with Doctors Imaging Group. I have the utmost confidence that you will find DIG’s team to be compassionate, professional, and fully committed to excellence in patient care. Together we will ensure a smooth transition and the continuity of the compassionate care you have come to trust and rely on. I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the trust and confidence you have placed in me and my team over the last 42 years. It has been the honor of my lifetime to serve you, and I am profoundly grateful for the relationships we have built. I look forward to continuing to provide care alongside the Doctors Imaging Group team as we enter this exciting new chapter. If you have any questions about this transition or your care, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. We are here to assist you and ensure that your experience remains as smooth and supportive as possible.

Warmest Regards,
Arlene M. Weinshelbaum, M.D.
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For questions regarding this acquisition feel free to contact us.
Dr. Weinshelbaum’s Office: 352-331-0115
Doctors Imaging Group: 352-331-9729
Email: info@doctorsimaginggroup.com

Talk to twenty women who have had more than one mammogram in their life, and you will get several different answers to the question: “Is a mammogram painful?”

Uncomfortable and scary may be a common answer. A few might say painful, but it only lasted a few seconds. Others may say it was no big deal.

Anxiety about the test, your personal pain threshold, and the technician all play a huge part in a woman’s perspective relative to their mammogram

Let’s discover a few tips to reduce any discomfort during a mammogram, and review why a mammogram should be an essential part of a woman’s health  in gainesville, flValue Of Mammograms

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women, so early diagnosis is crucial. A mammogram takes about 20 minutes from start to finish to:

• Identify cancer
• Compare any changes in breast tissue from past mammograms

The latest recommendations say that women 40-44 have the option of having the exam. From 45-54 it should be done annually, and women 55-74 every two years. Any woman with a high risk, like family history, should begin at 25.

There is no reason to be frightened of the exam. The value of early detection far outweighs a few minutes of angst.

Factors That Might Cause Discomfort During A Mammogram

A mammogram uses low dose x-rays to take a picture of breast tissue. During the exam each breast is placed between two plates. They help keep the breast in place, and the compression gives the technician a clear image. Normally two pictures are taken of each breast at different angles, although more may be prescribed.

The technician plays a huge part in your comfort vs discomfort, both physically and emotionally. You are in control, so communicate with the tech if you are experiencing any real pain or are anxious. A sensitive technician will walk you through the process regardless if it is your very first mammogram or your tenth.

Larger breasts can be more difficult to get into position and this may cause some discomfort.

In addition, breasts can be tender if the exam is performed prior to a woman’s period, and cysts can cause some pain during compression.

Steps To Reduce Any Discomfort

Anxiety can play a role in how much discomfort a woman experiences during a mammogram. The first step is to relax as much as possible.  Some other tips include:

• Schedule the mammogram about a week after a period when there should be little to no tenderness.
• Avoid or reduce caffeine drinks prior to the test.
• Bring a friend or relative with you. They can be there just for support, or to have an exam at the same time.
• Take an anti-inflammatory medication like Advil or Aleve prior to the test.
• Delay the exam if you are breastfeeding.
• Let the technician know about breast implants or benign cysts as they can cause some additional discomfort.