Article originally published on February 19, 2021.
Research has shown that in some cases, the COVID-19 vaccine can cause swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the underarm region of the injected arm. While this is often a normal immune response, the temporary change may affect the results of your mammogram.
In order to reduce the risk of abnormal mammogram findings related to the COVID-19 vaccine, it is recommended that you delay a screening mammogram for 4-6 weeks following the second dose of a COVID-19 vaccination.
Do NOT delay your mammogram if:
- You have other breast symptoms, such as a noticeable breast lump, unexplained breast pain or nipple discharge, change to the skin on your breast, change in the size or shape of your breast, or swelling, warmth or redness on your breast.
- You have not recently received a COVID-19 vaccine.
Before making any changes to your scheduled mammogram, speak with your healthcare provider or contact FMC’s women’s health nurse navigator at 740-687-2727. To learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine, click here.
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