Question

A patient is to undergo routine baseline mammography, but it is determined that the woman is lactating. What should be done and why?

A. Lactating breasts are extremely sensitive to compression; mammography should be postponed
B. Mammogram should be performed; radiation has no effect on lactation
C. Although lactating breasts are extremely dense, mammography should not be rescheduled
D. Lactation results in increased glandularity; mammogram should be postponed

Answer 1

A lactating breast can undergo routine baseline mammography with some modifications to minimize discomfort. Special techniques like spot compression and reducing the compression force can be used. It is also recommended to breastfeed or pump milk before the mammogram to reduce the amount of milk in the breasts.

Step-by-step explanation:

Lactating breasts can undergo routine baseline mammography with some modifications. A lactating breast is extremely sensitive to compression, so the compression of the breast during mammography can cause discomfort or pain. To minimize the discomfort, the technologist can use a special technique called spot compression, which focuses only on the area of concern instead of compressing the entire breast. The compression force can also be reduced to make the procedure more tolerable. Additionally, it is recommended to breastfeed or pump milk before the mammogram to reduce the amount of milk in the breasts, making it easier to perform the mammogram.