Book a private mammogram from the age of 40, ten years earlier than the NHS
Choose from over 300 UK-wide accredited imaging centres
Appointments within a week, results in days
Imaging report written by an expert consultant radiologist
No referral required, rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot

Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2026 begins on 1st October. Throughout the month, charities such as Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer UK and Macmillan Cancer Support raise awareness of symptoms, promote fundraising activities for research into prevention and treatment and highlight the importance of early detection.

Early detection matters. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available, the less aggressive treatment is, the sooner it can begin and the higher the survival rate. According to Cancer Research UK, almost everyone diagnosed with the earliest (stage 1) breast cancer will survive their cancer for five years or more, compared to around 30% of those diagnosed at the latest stage (stage 4).*

*https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/spot-cancer-early/why-is-early-diagnosis-important

Private annual breast screening mammograms are available through Scan.com from age 40, ten years earlier than the NHS and more regularly, with full support from start to finish.

Scan.com: Helping You Support Your Breast Health

At Scan.com, we understand the difference between simply booking a private mammogram and booking a private mammogram armed with a clear understanding of what it involves, why you might want to book privately and what to do next.

For example, you might be putting off having a mammogram because you’re worried it might hurt. Many people find mammograms uncomfortable, but many also say they’re not as painful as they thought. We have tips to help reduce discomfort during a mammogram.

You may also be wondering what to wear to a breast screening appointment and what to expect on the day. Our mammogram preparation article covers everything from clothing, body lotions and deodorants to what it feels like to have a mammogram.

Why Should I Book a Private Mammogram Before I’m 50?

Breast screening mammograms can detect breast cancer early, as they can find suspicious masses before they become a noticeable lump or cause other symptoms, such as nipple discharge or changes in the skin of the breast or nipple.

In the UK, NHS breast screening begins with an invitation between your 50th and 53rd birthday, and is offered every three years until you’re 71. Surveillance screening is offered to women deemed to be at a higher risk due to a strong family history or genetic risk, earlier and more frequently.

For most women, however, private mammograms in the UK, including those provided by Scan.com, are typically available from age 40 and are offered every year.

Dense breast tissue is more common in younger women, and it can make mammogram images more difficult to read. Sometimes, doctors recommend a breast MRI for patients with dense breast tissue, or with scar tissue from previous surgery or breast implants.

Are Private Mammograms Worth it Over 50?

Some women decide that they’d rather start having mammograms earlier than the NHS allows, for peace of mind and the reassurance that if something is present, it can be caught earlier. Others choose annual private mammogram screening, even over 50, for the same reasons.

Our private breast screening article provides detailed information on costs, how a mammogram works, your options depending on your age and family history and what to do if you have breast implants or you’re trans or non-binary.

What Happens When I Get My Results?

If you have a mammogram with the NHS, you can expect to receive your results by letter within two to three weeks. With Scan.com, you’ll receive your results digitally within a few days.

Whether with the NHS or privately, if you receive a normal result, it means no signs of cancer were detected, and you’ll be invited back for your next routine mammogram in three years on the NHS, or in 12 months with Scan.com.

Receiving a result that explains that you need further tests is worrying, but it doesn’t mean you have cancer. It means your medical team has spotted something that needs investigating, called a recall. Most people who receive a recall do not go on to be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Sometimes, after a recall, doctors recommend an ultrasound scan to examine a suspicious lump in more detail and see whether it’s a fluid-filled cyst or a solid lump. If you’re at a higher risk due to previous cancer or a family history, they may refer you for a breast MRI or ultrasound, depending on your circumstances.

Breast health care doesn’t stop with screening at Scan.com. If you need further care, we can recommend an expert within our network. Or, you can take your results to your NHS GP or specialist. We provide digital results that you can easily share with other healthcare providers.

How to Book a Private Mammogram UK

Booking a private mammogram at Scan.com is quick and easy.

Choose one of our 300+ UK-wide imaging centres and book. You don't need a referral from your GP or specialist, and appointments are usually available within a week.
We’ll call you within a day to confirm your booking, write your referral and send it digitally to your chosen clinic.
Attend your scan.
Receive your results within a few days.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a crucial time to raise awareness of breast health. Private mammogram screening is available through Scan.com whenever you’re ready. You need to be over 40, not pregnant or breastfeeding and have no breast cancer symptoms.

Book your mammogram

FAQs

Who can book a private mammogram?

You can book a private mammogram if you’re aged 40 or over, not pregnant or breastfeeding and you don’t have any symptoms of breast cancer.

How often can I have a private mammogram?

You’ll be invited to have a mammogram every 12 months. It’s up to you whether you attend every appointment, and you’ll still be invited to the NHS screening programme every three years. It’s not advisable to have more than one mammogram in a 12-month period.

Does a breast screen hurt?

Mammograms can feel uncomfortable, but the discomfort lasts a few moments and shouldn’t cause much pain.

How much does a private mammogram cost?

At Scan.com, private mammograms start at £395. You’ll pay one up-front fee with no hidden costs, which includes your referral, scan and digital access to your scan images and mammogram report, which you can share with your NHS or private GP or breast specialist.