How does radiation to the breast in a lactating woman affect milk production?

And does the fact that the breast is lactating affect radiation toxicity in anyway?

2 Answers

Mednet MemberInvited Expert

Radiation Oncology · University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

Answered on

Additional information regarding radiation and the effect on lactation:

There is no evidence that breast fed babies are at increased risk of cancer. For women who have had radiation to the breast, in a published study, 80% had decreased lactation volume reported. Most women could produce mild, (55.6...

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Mednet MemberInvited Expert

Radiation Oncology · Varian Medical Systems/Allegheny health network

Answered on

We generally use medication to suppress lactation during RT as otherwise it can cause symptomatic engorgement.

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