At my local hospital, breastfeeding mothers undergoing MRI are told
that they should continue breastfeeding with no cessation, and given
a copy of this 2-page statement from the American College of
Radiology (ACR) Bulletin:

"Administration of Contrast Medium to Breastfeeding Mothers," ACR
Committee on Drugs and Contrast Media, ACR Bulletin, Vol 57 Issue 10,
October 2001.

<http://www.acr.org/publications/members_only/bulletin/10-01/oct01_12_breastfeeding.html>

For iodinated X-ray contrast media (ionic and nonionic), their
recommendation reads in part:  "Because of the very small percantage
of iodinated contrast medium that is excreted into the breast milk
and absorbed by the infant's gut, we believe that the available data
suggest that it is safe for the mother and infant to continue
breastfeeding after receiving such an agent."

For gadolinium-based contrast agents, their recommendation reads in part:
"Review of the literature shows no evidence to suggest that oral
ingestion by an infant of the tiny amount of gadolinium contrast
agent excreted into breast milk would cause toxic effects.  We
believe, therefore, that the available data suggest that it is safe
for the mother and infant to continue breastfeeding after receiving
such an agent."

In both cases they go on to say that if the *mother* remains
concerned about potential ill effects, she may pump and dump for 24
hours -- but this is presented as her choice, not called for by the
evidence, and not the official recommendation.

I would hope that the radiologists would be open to this information
from their own professional organization.

Warmly,
Margaret
LLLL
Longmont, Colorado


>Recently we had a post partum mom who needed an MRI after delivery, the
>radiology department instructed her to pump and dump for 24 hours after the
>test due to the contrast.  The contrast used was Magnevist.  The OB caring
>for the patient stated that it was OK to nurse after the procedure and
>after looking it up in Hale it was found to be approved for use by the
>AAP.  My question is what are other facilities recommending to
>breastfeeding moms?  When given the information out of Hale the radiologist
>said the package insert said it was not ok to use and that was the
>information they were going to use.  I am prepared to go the extra mile for
>this one but I need allot of ammunition.  So any one who has policies or
>research regarding IV contrast such as Prohance or Magnevist I would
>appreciate it.  Thanks for your help.
>Kim

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