mammograms and breastfeeding

[chayahindy]

i had a mammogram done and had stopped breastfeeding 6 weeks prior.  the results indicated some areas of density, they suggested followup with repeated mammo pictures and ultrasound, the ultrasound came back fine, the mammo with compression of spots found dispersion of the density.  the radiologist recommended followup with mri, the mri was aborted due to an allergic reaction to the contrast dye.  my internist who doesn't seem to be too familiar with women's health issues suggests to followup with breast specialist, my ob-gyn thinks it's impossible to have accurate readings of a mammogram until at least 6 months after stopping breastfeeding.  does anyone have more info on this? thanks

[surgeon]

I'd agree that getting a mammogram within a few months of breastfeeding is likely to lead to inaccuracies, and unnecessary testing such as MRI and ultrasound. Unless there's a specific issue requiring investigation, it's better to wait several months to get a routine study. The fact that the densities dispersed on compression ought to be reassuring enough to let it go for now, unless there was a specific problem that led to the mammogram in the first place, in which case seeing a breast specialist would be an option.

[abgrove]

if you have a history of breast cancer and want a mammogram and/or MRI.  Do you recommend breast feeding?  is it possible to breast feed and get an MRI.