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Can Mammogram Test Cause Fetal Harm If Performed During Pregnancy?
I am 44 and trying to conceive, I won t know if I am pregnant until I can test in a week. I have a mammogram scheduled prior to that. Should I wait? I don t want to harm a possible pregnancy. Also, I have had one in the past and it was normal. I have no current issues. My second question is could it potentially harm any eggs I have left?
It is not safe during pregnancy. Although the amount of radiation needed for a mammogram is small, and the radiation is focused on the breasts, however, radiation should be avoided if possible during pregnancy. Moreover mammography may not be as helpful because of the increased density of the breasts during pregnancy.
You should postpone your screening mammogram until after you deliver your baby. There is no documented evidence of mammogram causing any harmful effects on any ova (eggs) that are remaining in the ovaries.
Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician
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Can Mammogram Test Cause Fetal Harm If Performed During Pregnancy?
Hi, It is not safe during pregnancy. Although the amount of radiation needed for a mammogram is small, and the radiation is focused on the breasts, however, radiation should be avoided if possible during pregnancy. Moreover mammography may not be as helpful because of the increased density of the breasts during pregnancy. You should postpone your screening mammogram until after you deliver your baby. There is no documented evidence of mammogram causing any harmful effects on any ova (eggs) that are remaining in the ovaries. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician