Introduction
Pregnancy is a sacred journey that plays a crucial role in every woman’s life. No amount of words can express the joy of a woman who is expecting a child.
However, what happens when this joy collides with the fear of a breast cancer diagnosis? Unfortunately, this is a harsh reality for some pregnant women.
In this article, we are trying to briefly understand what happens when breast cancer is diagnosed during pregnancy, how it is managed, what symptoms to keep an eye on, and more.
Breast Cancer Diagnosis During Pregnancy
Reports suggest that 1 in 3000 pregnant women can get diagnosed with breast cancer, and it is commonly seen in pregnant women aged between 32 and 38. Delaying childbearing may be one of the possible reasons for a breast cancer diagnosis during pregnancy.
Women experience various changes in their breasts during their pregnancy. The presence of lumps, bumps, or thickness is one of them. In about 80% of cases, these lumps are benign and non-cancerous. However, in a few cases, these lumps can be cancerous and need appropriate medical interventions immediately.
The changes that occur in the breast during pregnancy may make it challenging for women to detect breast cancer in the early stages. Therefore, it is necessary to undergo breast cancer screening exams during the prenatal and postnatal phases for early detection and timely treatment.
Can Breast Cancer Be Treated During Pregnancy?
A myriad of factors are considered before recommending treatment for breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy. Since some of the cancer treatments affect fetal growth, oncologists take extra care while planning the treatment plan.
The key factors considered while recommending breast cancer treatment plans for pregnant women include the gestational age at which the cancer was detected/diagnosed, stage and grade of breast cancer, status of hormone receptors (for possible hormone therapy), involvement of lymph nodes, and the number of children the patient has.
Commonly recommended treatment options for breast cancer during pregnancy include surgery (removal of the breast/breast conservation surgery), radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.
Surgery is generally considered safe throughout the pregnancy. However, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may negatively impact the growth of the fetus. These treatments may be recommended in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, depending on individual case parameters.
The expert team will always ensure that the treatment plan devised aligns with both the mother’s cancer care needs and the fetus’ developmental needs.
Breast Cancer Symptoms in Pregnant Women
The symptoms of breast cancer among pregnant women are the same as those seen in non-pregnant women, and they include:
What Should You Do When You Experience Breast Cancer Symptoms?
When you experience any of the breast cancer symptoms listed above, you should not panic. Consult your gynecologist or an oncologist for a proper evaluation. They recommend various tests like a mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy, or other tests to confirm the diagnosis of breast cancer.
If breast cancer is diagnosed, they will guide you with an individualized care plan that will help you successfully manage your condition while also ensuring you have a healthy delivery.
