X-rays are a common medical imaging technique using radiation to create internal body pictures. Many breastfeeding mothers are concerned about the safety of diagnostic imaging while nursing. This article clarifies the safety of X-rays during breastfeeding.
Understanding Radiation Exposure
X-ray radiation passes through the body and does not accumulate in breast milk. The radiation is present only during the brief moment the image is taken, leaving no radioactivity in the mother’s body or milk. Diagnostic X-rays involve very low radiation doses that do not affect breast milk composition or safety. There is no known effect on milk in the breast at the time of imaging, nor on milk production itself.
Common X-ray Procedures
Common diagnostic X-ray procedures are safe for breastfeeding mothers. Dental X-rays, for instance, use a very low, focused radiation dose that does not affect breast milk. Chest X-rays and X-rays for broken bones are also safe, as the radiation does not impact milk or the nursing infant.
Computed Tomography (CT) scans also use X-rays for detailed images. While CT scans involve a higher radiation dose than standard X-rays, the amount is still very small. The radiation used in CT scans has no effect on breast milk, confirming it is safe to continue breastfeeding after these examinations.
Contrast Agents and Breastfeeding
Sometimes, X-ray or CT scans require contrast agents to enhance image clarity. These agents, such as iodine-based for X-ray/CT or gadolinium-based for MRI, are a separate consideration from radiation exposure. Research indicates that only a minimal amount of these contrast agents enters breast milk. For iodinated contrast, less than 1% of the maternal dose is typically excreted into breast milk. For gadolinium-based contrast, less than 0.04% of the administered dose is found in breast milk within the first 24 hours.
The amount of contrast agent absorbed by the infant from ingested breast milk is even smaller, typically less than 1% of what is present in the milk. This results in an extremely low systemic dose absorbed by the infant. Leading medical organizations affirm it is generally safe for mothers to continue breastfeeding after receiving these contrast agents. Therefore, “pump and dump” is generally unnecessary for most contrast agents due to their low transfer into milk and minimal infant absorption. Barium sulfate, another contrast agent used for gastrointestinal imaging, is not absorbed by the body and does not enter breast milk at all.
Practical Advice for Breastfeeding Mothers
When preparing for any medical imaging procedure, inform your healthcare provider about your breastfeeding status. This allows them to consider your individual circumstances and ensure the safest and most appropriate imaging options are selected. Open communication with radiologists or imaging technicians can also address any specific concerns. Healthcare professionals are aware of current guidelines regarding imaging and breastfeeding, offering reassurance and accurate information.