Breast Cancer and Breastfeeding

Publication Date: June 9, 2020
Last Updated: March 14, 2022

Recommendations

Screening Breastfeeding Women for Breast Cancer

Breastfeeding women do not need to abstain from routine breast cancer screening due to lactational status, but may decide to defer screening if they plan to wean in a few months.
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The decision to screen breastfeeding women should be individualized, and related to personal lifetime risk of breast cancer.
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All radiologic modalities used for breast cancer screening are safe during lactation.
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The lactating breast has a unique radiographic appearance.
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Breastfeeding or expressing breast milk before a screening study is recommended to reduce density and improve examination sensitivity.
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Supplemental imaging may be beneficial during lactation.
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Overview

Title

Breast Cancer and Breastfeeding

Authoring Organization

Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine