CT Scans With contrast and BFing?

theaustins05

I have go get a abdominal and pelvic CT scan and drink oral contrast. The doc says no BFing pump and dump for 48hrs. I read on kellymom that isn't necessary. I was wondering if anyone has had experience, and also if you haven't what your opinion is/WWYD? TIA

ksulli

I just canceled an MRI because I would have received the contrast shot and my dr said I'd have to discard my milk for 24 hrs, but LO would not have been a month old yet, so I haven't pumped enough to make it through a day, nor have we introduced the bottle. Is your scan something that can be postponed? Could you get the shot instead so you only need to dump for a day?

theaustins05

I may have an IUD floating around my body, or lodged somewhere it shouldn't be. I was supposed to get it done this week but I scheduled for next Friday so I can pump and get a good stash before just in case. I have to drink it because is a scan of my pelvis and abdomen. M is good with bottles, but I've never not BFed her for that long. It's only ever been one or two feedings in a day.

andugo

Hi there... I think you should do absolutely what you feel comfortable with... But, that being said, my husband is a CT tech (and I'm an Xray tech, which also uses barium in certain studies...) and he says that oral contrast 'will not' cross the barrier between your digestive system and breastmilk.  Barium is a specific substance that your body does not absorb.  Most often mothers are guided to 'dump' the milk after such exams because of a lack of understanding on the whole issue... (After delivering my baby, I had a long conversation about this very subject with the Lact. Consultant and she gave me a bunch of information on this topic as well.  All of which stated that BF after oral contrast was safe.)

Honestly though, its whatever you feel is right for you... Maybe look up Barium on the internet for some specific documented sources?  I can understand being unsure of taking an opinion from someone on a message board

theaustins05

AmyG*:

no need to pump and dump.

they use these same contrasts on young babies who need CT scans you know?

if you want info from a professional, call infant risk (google for the number) and ask for the most up to date info on a CT scan with contrast and they'll tell you waht the most recent research states.

 

Thank you!