The American College of Radiology (ACR) Appropriateness Criteria states that mammography is safe during both pregnancy and lactationThe release of breast milk from the mammary glands. for screening and diagnostic purposes. Recommendations are based on age and breast cancer risk level.
Radiation Exposure and Fetal Safety
Mammography is the standard imaging method for detecting breast cancer, but some worry about radiation exposure during pregnancy. However, mammogramsA low dose x-ray picture of the breast that allows a doctor to view glandular tissue and determine the presence of cancer. use a very low dose of radiation—about 0.4 millisieverts (mSv) per scan—which is far below the threshold (50 mSv) that could pose a risk to fetal development. Additionally, the radiation is directed at the breast, not the uterus, further reducing any potential risk.
Radiation Exposure and Breastfeeding Safety
The small amount of radiation used in mammography does not accumulate in breast milk or pose any risk to a nursing baby. The American Cancer Society (ACS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirm that there is no need to interrupt breastfeeding before or after a mammogram.
Tips for Better Imaging While Breastfeeding
To improve imaging accuracy and comfort:
- Express milk before the mammogram to reduce breast density and improve image clarity.
- Schedule your mammogram after a feeding or pumping session to make breast compression during the scan more comfortable.
Conclusion
Breast cancer screening and diagnostic imaging are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Early detection leads to better outcomes, so it is important to follow the recommended guidelines. If you have any concerns, talk to your healthcare provider about your individual risks and screening options to make an informed decision that is best for you.
Sources
1. Molly S. Peterson, Alison R. Gegios, Mai A. Elezaby, Lonie R. Salkowski, Ryan W. Woods, Anand K. Narayan, Roberta M. Strigel, Madhuchhanda Roy, and Amy M. Fowler. Breast Imaging and Intervention during Pregnancy and Lactation. RadioGraphics 2023 43:10
2. Expert Panel on Breast Imaging: Roberta M. diFlorio-Alexander, MD, MSa ; Priscilla J. Slanetz, MD, MPHb ; Linda Moy, MDc ; Paul Baron, MDd ; Aarati D. Didwania, MDe ; Samantha L. Heller, MD, PhDf ; Anna I. Holbrook, MDg ; Alana A. Lewin, MDh ; Ana P. Lourenco, MDi ; Tejas S. Mehta, MD, MPHj ; Bethany L. Niell, MD, PhDk ; Ashley R. Stuckey, MDl ; Daymen S. Tuscano, MDm; Nina S. Vincoff, MDn ; Susan P. Weinstein, MDo ; Mary S. Newell, MD. Breast Imaging of Pregnant and Lactating Women. ACR Appropriateness Criteria. https://acsearch.acr.org/docs/3102382/Narrative/ accessed 3/28/2025.