The Importance of Breast Cancer Screening While Breastfeeding: Ultrasound as the Safer Choice

Breastfeeding is a remarkable journey that not only nurtures the bond between a mother and her child but also provides invaluable health benefits to both. Amid the joys and challenges of breastfeeding, women often prioritize their baby's well-being over their own health concerns. However, it's crucial to remember that breast cancer can affect women at any stage of life, including during breastfeeding. In this blog, we will delve into the significance of breast cancer screening while breastfeeding, emphasizing why ultrasound is a preferable choice over mammography. We will explore the reasons behind this choice, including the absence of radiation, the limitations of mammography, and the painless nature of ultrasound.

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The Challenge of Breast Cancer Detection During Breastfeeding

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Breastfeeding is a time of heightened sensitivity for mothers, as their bodies are providing nourishment to their babies. However, this does not exempt them from the possibility of developing breast cancer. The mammary gland changes that occur during breastfeeding can sometimes obscure the detection of abnormal growths. This makes regular breast cancer screening an essential practice to ensure early detection and effective treatment. Women’s breasts change during and after pregnancy, and now with breast cancer screening centers, like Eve Wellness, you don’t have to put off your annual screening – you have options.

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Mammography vs. Ultrasound: The Safer Choice

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Mammography, an X-ray technique commonly used for breast cancer screening, may pose concerns for lactating mothers due to its ionizing radiation. Although the radiation dose is relatively low, some women are understandably hesitant to expose themselves to any amount of radiation during breastfeeding. This is where ultrasound emerges as a safer alternative.

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The Benefits of Ultrasound Screening

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• 1.  No Radiation Exposure: Ultrasound imaging utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of breast tissue. Unlike mammography, it does not involve ionizing radiation, eliminating potential risks to both the mother and the baby. This characteristic makes ultrasound a more appealing option for breastfeeding women who wish to prioritize their health while ensuring their child's safety.
• 2.  Effectiveness with Dense Breast Tissue: Breast tissue can become denser during breastfeeding, which can make it challenging for mammography to accurately detect abnormalities. Ultrasound, on the other hand, is particularly effective in visualizing dense breast tissue. The absence of radiation and the detailed images produced by ultrasound enhance its ability to identify potential cancerous growths even in denser breast tissue.
• 3.  Painless and Non-Invasive: Another noteworthy advantage of ultrasound is its non-invasive nature. Mammography can cause discomfort, especially in breastfeeding women whose breasts may be more tender. Ultrasound involves gently moving a transducer over the breast, causing minimal to no discomfort. This painless procedure can encourage more women to undergo regular screenings without the fear of discomfort.
• 4.  The Eve Advantage:  The benefit of screening at Eve Wellness, an independent ultrasound clinic, is that you can screen at any age - WITHOUT a doctor's referral.   A new study shows that recent childbirth alone is an independent risk factor for breast cancer progression.  Women’s 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and 85% of women that are diagnosed have zero family history.  With the increase of women being diagnosed prior to 40, Eve gives you access to screening for early detection and prevention.  
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Empowering Women to Prioritize Their Health

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Empowerment through knowledge is essential for women during their breastfeeding journey. It's important to spread awareness about the availability and benefits of ultrasound screening, which can significantly contribute to early detection and successful treatment of breast cancer. By choosing ultrasound, breastfeeding mothers can take a proactive approach to their health without compromising their child's safety or experiencing unnecessary discomfort.  At Eve Wellness, we offer FDA-Approved breast ultrasound screening, powered by AI technology.  Women at any age, without a doctor’s referral, can make an appointment and get screening within 20 minutes.  You’ll have your physician read results back to you within 24-48 hours.  Appointments are available online at www.myevewellness.com or by walk-ins.  We are located at 2102 Union Street, San Francisco, CA. 

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Breastfeeding is a beautiful phase that demands immense care and attention, but it should not come at the cost of a mother's health. Breast cancer can affect women at any time, and regular screenings are essential for early detection. Opting for ultrasound over mammography while breastfeeding offers a safer choice that eliminates radiation exposure, effectively visualizes dense breast tissue, and ensures a painless experience. By making informed decisions about their health, breastfeeding mothers can continue to nurture their children while prioritizing their own well-being.

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