This page tells you about the scan, how to prepare and what will happen during your scan.
We also have a short film here Having a Breast MRI | North Bristol NHS Trust
The film follows the journey of one of our patients from their arrival at reception to leaving the department following their scan.
What is an MRI of the breast?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging test with no radiation (no X-rays). It uses magnetic field, radio frequency pulses, and a computer, to produce detailed pictures of the breasts.
When is breast MRI used?
MRI of the breast is used for a number of reasons. It is not a replacement for mammograms (breast X-rays) or ultrasound, but is used to provide extra information about your breasts.
Some of the reasons are:
- to provide additional screening if you have an increased risk of breast cancer to investigate abnormalities found by mammograms and ultrasound
- to assess the extent of a diagnosed cancer before planning treatment
- to measure the effect of chemotherapy on breast cancers
- to check the condition of breast implants
Essential information
Because of the powerful magnets used in MRI scanning, it is not suitable for everyone. Before the MRI, a member of the MRI Team will go through a safety checklist with you.
Dental filings, bridges, joint replacements and cardiac stents can all be scanned safely. Please still inform the Radiographer as they may need to minimise the effect on your imaging.
It is very important that you tell us if you have:
- any form of surgical implant
- pacemakers
- cochlear implants
- internal electronic devices
- clips on arteries especially following brain surgery
- metal fragments in your eyes
- implanted pumps
- implanted electronic stimulators
Please let the MRI Team know as soon as possible if you have any implanted devices. The phone number is on your appointment letter.
Clips used in breast imaging
Clips are often used in breast imaging to mark an area in the breast at the time of a biopsy. If you have one of these clips in your breast it is unlikely to prevent you from having your MRI, but please tell us If you have had surgery where a breast port or expander has been implanted please let the department know prior to your MRI as it may not be safe to have the MRI.
What happens when I arrive?
- You will be met by a member of the MRI Team, who will check your personal details and go through a safety checklist with you.
- They will explain the procedure to you. Please feel free to ask any questions at this time.
- You will be asked to undress and change into a gown (to wear with the opening at the front). A locker will be provided for your clothes.
- It is very important that you do not bring anything containing metal into the scanning room. Please leave all jewellery, credit cards, piercings, watches, mobile phones, and any other metal objects in the locker provided. Gold wedding bands will not affect the scanner and can be worn.
What happens during the scan?
- Breast MRI uses a special dye (contrast medium) which helps to take detailed pictures of the breast. This is called gadolinium-DTPA.
- The radiographer will use a needle to introduce a small flexible plastic tube into a vein in your arm so that the contrast medium can be given at the appropriate time during your scan.
Please note the injection will not be necessary if you are having the breast MRI purely to assess your breast implants. - You will then be asked to lie on your front on the MRI couch.
- Your breasts will need to go into the two holes on the couch. The Radiographer (always a female member of staff) may help position you. Please let us know if you are not comfortable as it is important that you lie absolutely still.
- The couch then slowly moves into the MRI scanner and the images are taken.
- The scanner is very noisy, please make sure the headphones are positioned over your ears. Earplugs are also available.
- The radiographer operates the MRI scanner from behind a partition. They will be able to see you throughout the procedure and you will be able to talk to them through an intercom in the MRI scanner. If you would like updates during of the scan, please let the radiographer know.
How long does a breast MRI take?
The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes, but please allow 1 hour 30 minutes for the appointment.
Can I eat and drink on the day of the MRI scan?
Yes, please eat and drink as normal. Please also take all your medication as you normally would.
Drink plenty of water after the scan because the contrast medium injection can sometimes dehydrate you.
Does having a breast MRI hurt?
No, MRI scans do not hurt.
Some women may find the injection uncomfortable. It is also normal to feel a slight flushing sensation when the injection is given but this usually settles quickly.
Some women may find lying on their front uncomfortable.
I have heard MRI scans are noisy, is this true?
The action of a large magnet in the MRI makes a knocking or drumming noise. The noise changes several times during your scan; this is perfectly normal.
We have recorded a film of the experience of a breast MRI scan that includes some of the various noises that you will hear, and these can be listened to here Having a Breast MRI | North Bristol NHS Trust.
You will be given headphones to reduce the noise.
You will still be able to hear what the radiographer says. If you would like, we can play the radio through these headphones.
I’m feeling worried about having the scan. What can I do?
It’s normal to feel a bit anxious about having an MRI scan especially if it’s your first one. Here are some tips that you may find helpful to prepare for your scan, and while you are having it.
Preparing for the scan
The more information you have before the scan the more relaxed you will feel at your appointment, The film on the website (at www.nbt.nhs.uk/breastmri) gives lots of helpful information on what to expect, including what the machines look and sound like. It will also give you an opportunity to see if there’s anything you don’t understand, or anything you would like more information on to prepare you.
During the scan
If you are feeling anxious during the scan:
- Remind yourself why you are having the scan (for example to review your health/get the best treatment possible) - knowing there are good reasons for having this MRI can help you to get through it.
- Know that it’s normal to feel some anxiety during a procedure. Breathing slowly and gently can help relax your mind and body. It’s important not to take deep breaths as this can affect the quality of the scan pictures.
- Distract yourself. For example, think of a relaxing place you have been to. such as a beautiful beach or a country walk and think about all the details (like the colours, sounds, smells, etc.).
- Be kind to yourself (a bit like being your own cheerleader) for example ‘I can do this’, ‘I’m doing really well’, ‘I’m in safe hands’.
- Remember that it will pass. Your radiographer will be able to give you an idea of how long the scan will be. If you would like time updates of how long you’ve been in the scanner and how long before it’s finished please let them know when you arrive on the day.
Getting a good picture – the radiographers will ask you to be absolutely still throughout your scan to ensure that we obtain the best pictures possible.
If you need to stop the scan
There is a ‘help button’ which will be available to you. Squeeze this button if you need assistance from the radiographers. If you are having the contrast, please only squeeze the bell during the contrast scan if you have a medical emergency as we cannot repeat that scan on the same day and may need to rebook your appointment.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the MRI department, on 0117 414 9003, in advance. It’s more helpful to contact the team beforehand so you can get support to make your experience of having a scan go as smoothly as possible.
Can I have a breast MRI if I am pregnant or breast feeding?
It is very important to tell the radiographer if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are breast feeding.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding this will need to be discussed with the referring doctor to make sure that MRI is still the best option.
How will I get my results?
How you receive the results of your MRI scan will depend on the reason for your scan and may be by letter, phone or at an appointment in person. How you receive your results will have been arranged with you prior to your scan.
A copy of your results will also be sent to your GP.
A note about your results and follow-up:
After your MRI has been reported, it is sometimes necessary to call you back to a breast clinic to take additional mammogram images or perform an ultrasound scan. This is a routine part of ensuring the clearest possible assessment and does not necessarily mean anything is wrong. If you are asked to return, please try not to worry; it is a standard step in providing you with the most thorough care.
Are there any side effects?
There are no expected side-effects of the MRI scan itself, and you will be free to drive and return to work should you wish.
In very rare cases, some women can have an allergic reaction to the contrast medium used in breast MRI. The radiographer and doctors are all trained to deal with such reactions.
How to contact us
- MRI Department Southmead Hospital 0117 414 9003
- Bristol Breast Care Centre 0117 414 7000
- Avon Breast Screening, Breast Care Nurses 0117 414 7072
Date published: 17 July 2026 Review due: 31 July 2029 PI number: BFT002956