Is it safe to have a mammogram during pregnancy?

[zippyswife]

I have my referral to the Breast clinic (following a lump) on Tuesday. I'm 17 weeks pregnant now. My gp told me not to have a mammogram and just to have the ultrasound. But I have just looked at nhs website and it seems they do give mammograms to pregnant women. So. What should I do? What is safe? Anyone with any experience of this? Thanks.

You need to ask at the breast clinic. If you are sent for one then also ask the radiographer as well (they may have a different point of view to the clinic). There is a risk, but you need to decide, with proper advice from medical professionals what to do.

Its entirely possible they will do an ultrasound/biopsy and not need to do a mammogram.

I hope your appointment goes well.

When I went with my mum, she saw the consultant first, then had the tests. I would ask the consultant and the radiographer.

Hope it goes really well. Remember 9 out of 10 are nothing to worry about.

Thank you. Id prefer to avoid risk if possible. I suppose it depends on what the ultrasound unearths x

I'm sure they, like you, want to avoid any risks as well - it's very unlikely they would ask you to undergo something that would carry a risk to your baby. It's still best to ask. Good luck for Tuesday.

The need for mammogram in pregnancy will be based on balance of risks iyswim.
If they feel it IS necessary, they should use a lead apron to protect your abdomen.
Try not to worry, easier said than done, I know, but you won't be the first woman they have seen during pregnancy, and there will be a protocol in place to protect you both as far as is possible.
it's such a pity to have this worry during what should be a happy time for you, but as pp's say, most lumps turn out to be ok.

Thank you all. I would normally have faith and go along with what they say but my gp was adamant that I don't listen to them and tell them I can't have a mammogram. But I suppose they do this everyday so should know what they are doing. X

I have been twice to the breast clinic in my early thirties and only had a ultrasound scan. was told that the breast tissue is too dense in younger woman for a mammogram and that a scan only is pretty standard.

good look with your appointment today.

I have been thinking about you OP and hoping today went well and you had good news.

Thank you lulu. Today went well. The consultant said it was glandular and told me to go ahead relax and enjoy the pregnancy. Thanks all for your support. X

Thank goodness. That is such good news. You must be so relieved. Congratulations!

Glad to see it went well!

Thank you x

That's good to hear, Op.