Mammographic Density Changes During the Menstrual Cycle Giske Ursin1, Yuri R. Parisky, Malcolm C. Pike and Darcy V. Spicer Departments of Preventive Medicine [G. U., M. C. P.], Radiology [Y. R. P.], and Medicine [D. V. S.], University of Southern California/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, California 90089 The ability to detect small tumors is impaired in dense mammograms. It has been suggested that the sensitivity of mammograms could be lower in mammograms obtained during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. We examined the change in mammographic density from the follicular to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle in 11 women. Although the average increase in densities was quite small (1.2%; P = 0.08), six women had clinically significant increases (1.4–7.8%), suggesting that premenopausal women should undergo mammographic examinations in the follicular part of the menstrual cycle. Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention Vol. 10, 141-142, February 2001 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.