Question: Can a Thyroid Patient Safely Get Radioactive Iodine / RAI While Breastfeeding?
Radioactive iodine treatment is a common treatment for hyperthyroidism and Graves' disease. But is it safe for a woman who is breastfeeding to be treated with radioactive iodine / RAI?
Answer: No. While the most common treatment for Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism in the U.S. is the treatment known as radioactive iodine, this treatment should be deferred in women who are breastfeeding. The radioactive iodine appears in the breast milk, and can pose a danger to the infant's thyroid.
It is also recommended that breastfeeding be stopped at least four to eight weeks prior to RAI treatment, as a way to help prevent excessive radiation exposure for the breast. At minimum, breastfeeding should be stopped several days before RAI treatment.
A woman should consult her physician for specific guidance.
Read more Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding and Thyroid Disease
