Is it safe for breast milk to go through X-ray?

Understanding the Safety of X-Rays for Breast Milk
As concerns about radiation exposure continue to permeate public discourse, many breastfeeding mothers wonder whether it is safe for breast milk to undergo X-ray screening. The good news is that current medical guidance indicates that X-rays do not pose a risk to breast milk or breastfeeding infants.
X-Rays and Breast Milk: What the Research Says
According to multiple reputable sources, including the Drugs and Lactation Database, X-rays do not leave any residual radiation or radioactivity in the body or in breast milk. This means that diagnostic X-rays, whether for dental imaging or other medical purposes, have no known effects on the composition of breast milk at the time of imaging.
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology supports this view, stating that breastfeeding women can safely undergo diagnostic radiologic studies, including X-rays, without concern for their milk supply or the safety of their infants. In fact, mothers can nurse immediately after having an X-ray, as the milk remains unaffected.
Practical Considerations for Traveling with Breast Milk
For mothers traveling with expressed breast milk, particularly through airport security, the question arises about whether the milk should go through X-ray machines. While some may worry about potential damage or sterilization of the milk, experts clarify that the X-ray machines used in security screenings do not alter the milk’s safety or nutritional value. However, mothers can request a hand inspection of their milk to avoid any concerns about X-ray exposure, ensuring peace of mind during travel.
Conclusion: A Safe Choice for Nursing Mothers
In summary, both diagnostic X-rays and security screening processes are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and their milk. The consensus among health professionals is clear: mothers can confidently undergo X-ray procedures without fear of harming their milk or their infants. This reassurance allows nursing mothers to prioritize their health and necessary medical care without compromising their breastfeeding journey.

How do you pack breast milk for a flight?

TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items. Although not required, to expedite the screening process, it is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches.

Does radiation pass through breast milk?

Radioactive material can be passed to babies: Through breast milk of mothers with internal contamination. Through contaminated water mixed with infant formula. While being held and fed if their caregiver has radioactive material on their skin or clothing (external contamination)

How much baby milk can you take through airport security?

Here’s all you need to know. First off it’s important to know that the 100ml limit for liquids doesn’t apply to formula, or the water you need for making it, so technically you can take as much as you’d need to last the flight.

What radiation does to the breast?

The main short-term side effects of external beam radiation therapy to the breast are: Swelling in the breast. Skin changes in the treated area similar to a sunburn (redness, skin peeling, darkening of the skin) Fatigue.

How to know if breast milk is spoiled?

Human breast milk can spoil just like any other kind of milk. This leads to a sharp, sour smell and flavor. There’s no way to save spoiled milk. You should be able to tell it’s spoiled by tasting a sip of it yourself.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

How does radiation affect the baby?

Depending on the stage of fetal development, the health consequences of exposure at doses greater than 0.5 Gy can be severe, even if such a dose is too low to cause an immediate effect for the mother. The health consequences can include growth restriction, malformations, impaired brain function, and cancer.

Is it okay to get dental x-rays while breastfeeding?

Should I have dental X-rays while pregnant? Generally speaking, it’s safe to have X-rays of your teeth while pregnant or breastfeeding (chestfeeding).

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

Can I pass breast milk through TSA?

Breast milk is exempt from the normal TSA rules regarding liquids — it is not limited to the 3.4 ounces that other liquids are limited to. You can carry it in bottles and/or milk bags. Since I primarily pumped with the Willow wearable breast pump on my trips, I always had my milk in milk bags.