Mammograms During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
Pregnancy and breastfeeding bring many natural changes to the body, including changes in breast tissue. You may notice differences in texture, sensitivity, and density, which are completely normal, but can sometimes make it harder to recognise when something isn’t quite right.
At Auckland Breast Centre, we’re often asked whether breast imaging is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and when it should be considered.
Is breast imaging safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Yes. Both mammography and ultrasound are considered safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
When imaging is clinically necessary, your care team will choose the most appropriate and safest approach for both you and your baby.
- Ultrasound is commonly used as the first-line investigation
- Mammography may also be recommended when more detailed imaging is required
Why breast imaging can be more complex
Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding often increase breast density. This can make imaging results especially mammograms more difficult to interpret.
For this reason, our radiology team may recommend:
- A combination of ultrasound and mammography
This approach provides a more comprehensive and accurate assessment
Common breast changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Many changes are completely normal, including:
- Increased firmness or density
- Tenderness or sensitivity
- Lumps related to milk production
However, if you notice:
- A new lump
- Persistent pain
- Any change that concerns you
It is important to speak with your GP, maternity provider, or healthcare professional.
If needed, you may be referred to Auckland Breast Centre for further assessment. Imaging and, if needed, biopsy, can be safely performed to investigate symptoms outside the expected range of normal changes.
Breast screening during pregnancyWhether you continue routine breast screening during pregnancy depends on your individual risk:
- Higher-risk women (greater than 20% lifetime risk of breast cancer):
Usually advised to continue regular screening during pregnancy and breastfeeding - Average or slightly increased risk:
Typically advised to delay routine screening until after pregnancy
Your specialist or referring doctor will guide you.
Mammograms while breastfeeding
Mammograms can be safely performed while breastfeeding. However, breast density may remain higher, which can affect image clarity.
For this reason:
- You may require additional imaging, such as ultrasound
For comfort during your appointment:
- Feed your baby just before your scan to reduce breast fullness
When to return to routine screening
If you delayed screening during pregnancy, the ideal time to resume routine mammograms is:
- Approximately three months after finishing breastfeeding
This allows breast tissue to return closer to its usual state, improving imaging accuracy.
Here to support you
At Auckland Breast Centre, our experienced team provides safe, accurate breast imaging in a supportive and reassuring environment.
If you have concerns or have been referred for breast imaging during pregnancy or breastfeeding, we are here to guide you with care and clarity.