Mammography
Mammographies, like any x-ray, do not contraindicate breastfeeding because the radiation neither stays in the breast nor is excreted in the milk.
Breastfeeding, as with small or very large breasts, can make reading a mammography difficult (Robbins 2011, Gregl 1977), in which case ultrasound can be used (Sabate 2007).
There is not always an increase in density or reading difficulties in breastfeeding mothers (Swinford 1998).
Emptying the breast (breastfeeding) just before can help to reduce the discomfort of the examination and facilitate its reading.
Mammographies do not alter prolactin levels (Saraç 2008).
The different contrasts for these explorations (iodized or not) are compatible with breastfeeding because they are inert, metabolize quickly without releasing iodine, are not excreted in milk and are not absorbable orally (Cova 2014, Tremblay 2012, Wang 2012, Newman 2007, Webb 2005, Nielsen 1987).
Following a radiological examination, even with iodinated contrast or not, it is not necessary to wait before breastfeeding.
See below the information of this related product:
- X-Ray (Very Low Risk)
See below the information of these related groups:
Very Low Risk
Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.
Low Risk
Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.
High Risk
Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.
Very High Risk
Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.
References
- Cova MA, Stacul F, Quaranta R, Guastalla P, Salvatori G, Banderali G, Fonda C, David V, Gregori M, Zuppa AA, Davanzo R. Radiological contrast media in the breastfeeding woman: a position paper of the Italian Society of Radiology (SIRM), the Italian Society of Paediatrics (SIP), the Italian Society of Neonatology (SIN) and the Task Force on Breastfeeding, Ministry of Health, Italy. Eur Radiol. 2014Abstract
- Tremblay E, Thérasse E, Thomassin-Naggara I, Trop I. Quality initiatives: guidelines for use of medical imaging during pregnancy and lactation. Radiographics. 2012Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- Wang PI, Chong ST, Kielar AZ, Kelly AM, Knoepp UD, Mazza MB, Goodsitt MM. Imaging of pregnant and lactating patients: part 1, evidence-based review and recommendations. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2012Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- Robbins J, Jeffries D, Roubidoux M, Helvie M. Accuracy of diagnostic mammography and breast ultrasound during pregnancy and lactation. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2011Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- Saraç F, Tütüncüoğlu P, Ozgen AG, Saygili F, Yilmaz C, Bilgen I, Memiş A. Prolactin levels and examination with breast ultrasound or mammography. Adv Ther. 2008Abstract
- Sabate JM, Clotet M, Torrubia S, Gomez A, Guerrero R, de las Heras P, Lerma E. Radiologic evaluation of breast disorders related to pregnancy and lactation. Radiographics. 2007Abstract
- Newman J. Breastfeeding and radiologic procedures. Can Fam Physician. 2007Abstract Full text (link to original source) Full text (in our servers)
- Webb JA, Thomsen HS, Morcos SK; Members of Contrast Media Safety Committee of European Society of Urogenital Radiology (ESUR). The use of iodinated and gadolinium contrast media during pregnancy and lactation. Eur Radiol. 2005Abstract
- Swinford AE, Adler DD, Garver KA. Mammographic appearance of the breasts during pregnancy and lactation: false assumptions. Acad Radiol. 1998Abstract
- Nielsen ST, Matheson I, Rasmussen JN, Skinnemoen K, Andrew E, Hafsahl G. Excretion of iohexol and metrizoate in human breast milk. Acta Radiol. 1987Abstract
- Gregl A, Flaskamp D, Haller J, Heitmann D, Hofmann P, Krack U, Scholz GW. [The diagnostic value of mammography during pregnancy and lactation (the radiological features of the breast during pregnancy) (author's transl)]. Rofo. 1977Abstract