(HealthDay News) -- Before scheduling or showing up for a mammogram, you should be fully prepared to get the best results.

The National Women's Health Information Center offers these guidelines for what to do before a mammogram:

• When scheduling the appointment, plan to go about one week after your period. Your breasts will be less sore at this time.
• If you have breast implants, make sure you tell the facility about them when you schedule your appointment.
• The day of your mammogram, wear a separate shirt and skirt, shorts or pants, not a dress. It will be easier to just remove your top during the mammogram.
• To avoid shadows on your result, don't use any lotions, powders, deodorant or perfumes on the day of your mammogram.