Having a new baby can feel overwhelming, and for parents who are breastfeeding, much of the focus is on feeding and caring for the infant. But in the midst of caring for your baby, it’s important not to forget your own health.
“A new mother often focuses so much on the baby that she may neglect herself and her health,” says Sam Guirguis, DO, Department Chair of Radiology at Saint Anthony Hospital in Chicago. He emphasizes that taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to care for your baby.
This includes performing regular breast self-exams. But how can you tell if a lump is just a clogged milk duct or something more serious? Experts provide guidance.
Why Self-Exams Matter for Nursing Parents
Even while breastfeeding, parents should continue regular breast self-exams. Carly Dulabon, MD, IBCLC, NABBLM-C, director of breastfeeding medicine at Akron Children’s Hospital, explains: “Women can still get breast cancer during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Self-exams are the first line of defense in detecting abnormalities.”
The purpose of self-exams is simple: learn what is normal for your breasts so you can quickly notice changes and seek medical advice when needed.
Distinguishing Milk Ducts from Concerning Lumps
Breast changes during breastfeeding are normal, but not every lump is harmless. Dr. Dulabon notes that clogged or inflamed milk ducts appear quickly and often change size after nursing. Mastitis may also cause tenderness, redness, fever, or chills, but these symptoms typically resolve.
However, lumps that persist for several days or appear without other breastfeeding-related symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Claudia Ortiz, DNP, WHNP-BC, CTTS, a nurse practitioner at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, stresses: “When in doubt or if something unusual is felt, it is best to bring it to your provider’s attention.”
When and How to Perform Self-Exams
While shower checks are common, the best time for a breast exam is after nursing or pumping. Engorgement can make it harder to detect abnormalities. Dr. Dulabon suggests performing checks at different times of day to become more familiar with normal breast tissue changes.
Mammograms and Next Steps
Some treatments are limited during breastfeeding, but mammograms are safe. “Screening or diagnostic mammograms should not be delayed while breastfeeding,” says Dr. Dulabon. Patients should follow recommended screening guidelines based on age and risk factors.
For more accurate results, Ortiz recommends nursing or pumping before the exam, avoiding deodorant or lotions, and informing the technologist that you are breastfeeding. She also suggests 3D mammography to better evaluate dense breast tissue common in nursing mothers.
The key takeaway: if you notice anything unusual, consult your healthcare provider promptly. Early detection saves lives and increases the chances of successful treatment.
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