Listen "Radiation & Breastfeeding: Understanding the Risks and Realities"
Episode Synopsis
Show Notes: In this episode of the MotherToBaby Podcast, host and genetic counselor Chris Stallman welcomes Dr. Emily Caffrey, a certified health physicist at the Health Physics Society and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Together, they dive into one of the most frequently asked topics: how radiation exposure may impact breastfeeding. Dr. Caffrey explains the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, details how imaging procedures like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs interact with the body, and addresses concerns around contrast agents and radioactive tracers. The episode also covers what breastfeeding women working around radiation should know, including practical safety tips and case-by-case considerations. Key Takeaways: Diagnostic imaging procedures do not make breast milk radioactive or require stopping breastfeeding Some radioactive tracers or therapeutic treatments may require temporary or permanent changes to breastfeeding plans, depending on the specific agent and dose Always inform your healthcare provider that you’re breastfeeding and ask questions about any upcoming procedures Expert help is available—don’t rely on internet searches alone Resources mentioned in this episode: MotherToBaby.org Health Physics Society American College of Radiology Guidelines Call 866-626-6847 or text 855-999-3525 to speak with a MotherToBaby specialist 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast and never miss an episode!
More episodes of the podcast The MotherToBaby Podcast
Living with FASD
23/01/2025
Public Health Efforts on FASD
16/01/2025
FASD Discovery and Prevalence
09/01/2025
Influencers, Self-Advocacy and Studies
22/11/2024
Busting Vaccination in Pregnancy Myths
01/11/2024
Ask A Midwife
07/10/2024
Radiation and Its Effects on Pregnancy
16/09/2024
Debunking Folic Acid Myths
16/08/2024