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You scheduled your first breast cancer screening, then you learned some exciting news. �۴dz�’r�� expecting a new little one! You may be wondering whether to have your mammogram during or to wait until ��dz�’v�� settled into life with your new baby.��

“More women are having children later in life, which increases the risk of breast cancer,” says Dr. Georges Sylvestre, maternal and fetal medicine specialist at AV�о���. “So, if a 42-year-old woman walks into my office with a high risk of breast cancer and never had a mammogram, I’ll discuss the possibility of a mammogram with her.”��

Is a Mammogram Safe During Pregnancy?����

Mammography is a breast imaging technique that takes X-ray images of the breast tissue. ����’s helpful in detecting breast cancer, often before symptoms arise. However, mammography relies on radiation.����

If ��dz�’r�� afraid this radiation exposure puts you at risk, Dr. Sylvestre has some reassuring information.��

“Screening mammograms are absolutely not dangerous,” Dr. Sylvestre says, “but they’re not quite as sensitive during pregnancy.”��

Your provider makes your mammogram while pregnant safer by placing a lead shield over your belly. Before making your decision, talk with your health provider about the pros and cons. Ask whether breast screening is recommended for you during pregnancy.����

Breast Screening Options During Pregnancy��

Though a mammogram during pregnancy is considered safe, you have options. Other types of breast screenings include:��

If Not Now, Then When?��

When to have a mammogram is a personal choice you should make with your women’s health provider. Breastfeeding is also. If you choose to breastfeed, you may want to wait even longer for your breast screening. A mammogram may be less accurate due to pregnancy and lactation.����

“If ��dz�’r�� at high risk for breast cancer, it’s totally reasonable to offer breast cancer screening with a mammogram during pregnancy,” Dr. Sylvestre says. “����’s also reasonable to wait if ��dz�’r�� not at high risk, as mammogram sensitivity will improve three or four months after you stop nursing.”����

Conclusion��

If ��dz�’r�� considering whether to have a mammogram during pregnancy, remember these key takeaways.��