From the Research
Yes, you can undergo a mammogram while breastfeeding, though there are some considerations to keep in mind. It's generally recommended to inform your healthcare provider and the mammography facility that you are breastfeeding when scheduling your appointment. To minimize discomfort and optimize image quality, try to nurse your baby or pump shortly before your mammogram to reduce breast fullness. Be aware that breastfeeding can make breast tissue more dense, which may affect image interpretation and potentially lead to additional imaging being required 1. The mammogram itself won't harm your milk or your baby, and you can resume breastfeeding immediately after the procedure. Some women experience temporary discomfort during the compression of breast tissue, which might be more pronounced while lactating. If you're concerned about radiation exposure, rest assured that the amount from a standard mammogram is very low and doesn't affect breast milk safety 2. If you're getting a mammogram for a specific breast concern rather than routine screening, your doctor might recommend ultrasound as an initial imaging option, as it can sometimes provide clearer images in lactating breasts 3.
Some key points to consider:
- Inform your healthcare provider and the mammography facility that you are breastfeeding when scheduling your appointment
- Nurse your baby or pump shortly before your mammogram to reduce breast fullness
- Breastfeeding can make breast tissue more dense, affecting image interpretation
- The mammogram itself won't harm your milk or your baby
- You can resume breastfeeding immediately after the procedure
- Ultrasound might be recommended as an initial imaging option for specific breast concerns 4. Additionally, it's worth noting that contrast media used in some radiologic procedures are excreted into breast milk in small quantities, posing no concern for nursing babies 5.