05/04/2026
Can you get a mammogram if you’re lactating? YES!
If symptoms, age, or family history support getting a mammogram please don’t delay until you’re done breastfeeding.
This important screening tool is life saving, and your health matters.
It took me 10 minutes out of my day, and parking was easy at Northridge. Thank you UVA!
Tips on how to get the best imaging if you’re breastfeeding:
1️⃣ bring baby and a helper so you can nurse baby right before going into your appointment. Baby cannot be in the room with you, but that’s where the helper comes in. Bring a hand pump just in case baby is distracted or doesn’t empty you well.
2️⃣bring a pump with you, and plan for a full pumping session right before your appointment time. There is a private lactation room on the main floor of UVA’s Northridge building, but pumping in your car is an option too. Do what works best for you. Use hands to massage breasts while pumping for extra milk removal, or hand express into your flanges for a few minutes after pumping.
⌛️the goal is to get as much milk out as possible before your imaging so that full milk ducts don’t block the view of breast tissue.
