Breast Cancer and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
The breast cancer in pregnancy is a rare but real challenge, affecting approximately 1 in 3,000 pregnancies. The average age of diagnosis is between 32 and 38 years and, in most cases, the cancer is detected by palpation of a breast lump.
Although this is a particularly charged and difficult situation, medical progress today allows for the safe and effective treatment of breast cancer, without endangering the health of the fetus. The central goal is the balance between treating the mother and protecting the pregnancy.
Successful management requires the close collaboration of a specialized team that includes breast surgeon, oncologist, radiation therapist, gynecologist and psychologist.
How safe are treatments during pregnancy?
All basic treatments for breast cancer (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy) can be applied, but their administration time is modified, depending on the trimester of pregnancy and the characteristics of the disease.
Surgical treatment:
Surgery is generally safe in all pregnancy stages.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be safely administered during second and third trimester. The first trimester is avoided, due to increased risks to fetal development.
Radiotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy
These treatments contraindicated in pregnancy, as they may seriously affect the fetus. They are only administered after delivery.
In general, Termination of pregnancy is not necessary, even when immediate treatment is required. Only in extremely aggressive forms of the disease (such as inflammatory cancer) can such an option be considered. The data so far show that maternal cancer does not affect fetal development, nor does it increase the risk of malignancy in the child in the future .
What is the appropriate surgical treatment during pregnancy?
Main surgical options include:
- Lumpectomy (breast-conserving surgery)
- Mastectomy (complete removal of the breast)
During pregnancy, it is preferred mastectomy more often, as after lumpectomy, radiotherapy is required, which is harmful to the fetus and cannot be postponed without risk of recurrence.
However, when the cancer diagnosed in the third trimester, lumpectomy may be an acceptable option. In this case, the delay in radiotherapy The time until delivery is short, especially if chemotherapy is planned in the meantime. In contrast, during the first and second trimesters, mastectomy is usually the safest option.
Conclusion
The breast cancer in pregnancy is rare, but treatable. Correct diagnosis and personalized treatment offer very good prospects for both the mother and the child. Support from a multidisciplinary team, good information and psychological empowerment play a decisive role in the woman's journey.
At breastaware.gr you will find scientifically validated information on all aspects of breast health — from prevention and early diagnosis to modern treatment options. Our goal is to empower women with reliable knowledge and continuous support.
Bibliography:
- Amant F, et al. "Breast cancer in pregnancy: recommendations of an international consensus meeting." Eur J Cancer. 2010;46(18):3158–68.
- Loibl S, et al. "Treatment of breast cancer during pregnancy: an observational study." Lancet Oncol. 2012;13(9):887–896.
- Cardonick E, et al. "Chemotherapy during pregnancy: a review of available data." Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2011;54(4):552–569.
