having CAT scan, what about breastfeeding?

[mommyof2gr8kids]

I had a CAT scan last week, and afterwards, was told that I could not breast feed for 36-48 hours. I was devastated! We had not expected that and had not prepared for it by weaning my son or pumping extra milk. After reading a lot of information on the internet, I came to the conclusion that so little of the contrast solution gets into the breastmilk and so little of what gets into the breastmilk gets into the baby, that it was more of a CYA thing on the part of the radiology department to tell me that. So, I held my son off as long as I could, did a few pump and dumps, and then before bed, began breastfeeding again. I don't see any ill effects from that instance. However, I have to have another CAT scan today. Was I correct, or should I be prepared to cut my son off completely this time?:2bfbabe:

[tylerdylan]

Even if only a little of the contrast gets into your son it is too much IMO. The radiology department recommended that for a reason, though your doctor should have warned you in advance so you could have pumped enough milk to last him the 36-48 hours. I would be pumping if I were you!!!

[preemiemamarach]

I did it

I had an MRI with contrast (gadolinium) a few weeks ago and was told by the radiology dept to avoid BF for 48 hours as well. My DS reacts very poorly to formula, so this was a hard blow. Because I wanted to read the original research, I decided to continue pumping (was EPing at the time) and freeze the milk.

I went to kellymom and pulled the original research studies (I think there are links and I didn't have to search). The bottom line is that the concentrations of that particular drug (if that's the one they're using, please check!) are low enough that they are of no concern. Infants do undergo contrast radiology procedures and receive the same drug in much higher doses than they would ingest through breast milk, according to the literature. One study author recommended changing the guidelines to something like a 6 hour wait, not 48 hours, and even that would be very very conservative.

I ended up giving my son the frozen milk because I felt it was safe after reading all the studies.

But *definitely* find out what drug it is and try to research the specific drug!!

I really HTH.

[mommyof2gr8kids]

Thanks and I will double check

I researched the drugs they used last time and found my answers. I don't know what they plan to use today and I will find out for sure before I leave. The last one required me to drink some stuff and not eat. This one does not. This one is to check for kidney stones.

[preemiemamarach]

Good luck with the test, btw- I haven't had kidney stones, but have seen many people suffering through passing them and WOW- misery! I hope you're able to get your answers, and that you're able to continue BF.

[tylerdylan]

Yes, of course kids get CTs and contrast too WHEN THEY NEED IT. You have to consider the ALARA principle (as low as reasonably achievable) and weigh the benefits vs the risks for every medical procedure you have done. Is the test worth it to you? If you have kidney stones I can imagine the test is very worth it you. But, does your child need to be exposed to it? NO!! Like you said today's CT will not require contrast, but you are still radiating your body. Make sure you ask for a lead apron to cover your chest to reduce radiation to your breastmilk. And I would still pump the milk out before feeding my little one radiated milk. You are aware that the radiation in CTs can lead to cancer right? Why subject your little one to that unneccessarily? MRIs are different because they don't use a radiating energy source, but still often use contrast. I would try to get an MRI instead if at all possible. Also, depending on the size of the stones ultrasound can be quite helpful (I am an ultrasound tech) atleast to ensure that the stones aren't causing an obstruction. Then once your little one is weaned an occassional CT to check on the number and status of your stones is ok.

[Breastfeeding Insomniac]

It is always good to double check what the Dr tells you, as well as the radiology dept tells you. I have seen MANY women pump and dump unnecessarily. Here is something very credible to print out and refer to, bring it to your test w/ you and show the radiologist:
http://neonatal.ama.ttuhsc.edu/lact/...agents.pdf.pdf

[mommyof2gr8kids]

No contrast needed -- no problem!

I didn;t need any drugs or contrast for my CAT today! So I can breastfeed my little guy with no problem at all. :

[Breastfeeding Insomniac]

[QUOTE=mommyof2gr8kids;9409274]I didn;t need any drugs or contrast for my CAT today! So I can breastfeed my little guy with no problem at allQUOTE]

I am so happy for you and your baby!