CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the effect of a chest x-ray on a breast-feeding mother?

1. Enhances milk production

2. No effect

3. Increases radiation exposure to the infant

4. Requires cessation of breastfeeding

The correct answer is: No effect

The observation that a chest x-ray has no effect on a breastfeeding mother is grounded in several important principles of diagnostic imaging and radiation safety. During a standard chest x-ray, the amount of radiation exposure is very low and primarily focused on the thoracic region. The shielding measures taken, including the use of lead aprons, further mitigate any potential radiation exposure to the breast tissue. Additionally, the radiation from a single diagnostic x-ray does not accumulate in the body and is considered safe for both the mother and the breastfeeding infant. Current guidelines suggest that there are no contraindications to breastfeeding after a mother has undergone a chest x-ray, as the breast milk remains uncontaminated and safe for the infant. Therefore, mothers can continue breastfeeding without any interruptions post-exposure, maintaining their normal routine without concern for adverse effects on milk production or infant safety.