Being pregnant while diagnosed with breast cancer can be one of the hardest and scariest things for a woman to have to endure. Although it may not be a frequent occurrence, there are ‘mothers-to-be’ who ve been diagnosed with the disease. Being pregnant is not a factor that contributes to contracting the disease, but the hormones the body experiences from pregnancy can cause the disease to grow exponentially. 

As a result of having enlarged breasts during pregnancy, it is easy to overlook lumps or masses, which is why breast cancer tumors are often enlarged and advanced by the time they are noticed. 

Having breast cancer while pregnant requires for a woman to be extra cautious and observant. 

Diagnosis 

Seeing your doctor regularly is very important while carrying your child. The prenatal visits will help to keep yourself and your baby as healthy as possible, allowing your doctor to attack any issue as early as possible. 

During these visits, your doctor may examine your breasts for any changes. A mammogram is considered fairly safe during pregnancy, but it may not be as effective in detecting the disease due to the density of the breast. 

If a lump is found, your doctor should conduct a biopsy. The tissue will be examined and a small sample of the infected area will be removed with a needle or through a small incision. The sample will be examined for any cancer cells. 

Will My Baby be Affected If I Have Breast Cancer?

There is no evidence to suggest that breast cancer will harm your child during pregnancy. If your doctor detects cancer in its early stages, they will recommend removing the suspicious lump or the entire breast. Undergoing surgery is safe during pregnancy, but treatments usually pose a risk to the child. 

The first or second trimester requires a mastectomy while the lumpectomy is usually done in the third trimester. Radiation therapy, if needed, is usually done after the pregnancy as it can cause the baby harm. Chemotherapy, if needed, will also cause the baby harm and therefore not recommended until after the third trimester. 

Can I Breastfeed If I Have Breast Cancer? 

While breastfeeding is generally okay, if you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, it is still recommended to speak with your doctor to see what is best for you and your child. If you are undergoing chemotherapy, do not breastfeed your child, as powerful drugs from the treatment can travel from your milk to the child.