Treating Breast Cancer During Pregnancy
Getting diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy can be devastating. It is a rare diagnosis but not an unheard-of occurrence. It is difficult for patients to come to terms. At some advanced stages of cancer, patients have to make a tough choice between pregnancy and treatment. The prognosis for breast cancer in pregnant women is different from that of non-pregnant women. The treatment also differs according to the stage of cancer, as well as how far along they are in their pregnancy.
In the case of breast cancer, it is important to diagnose and treat it early on for better prognosis and survival rates. The most common symptoms are swelling, lumps and/or pain in one or both breasts, nipple discharge (bloody or clear), redness or scaling around nipples, dimpling of the skin over a nipple, and change in size or shape of the breast. Consult the best oncologist in Pune if you observe these symptoms.
Treatment Options
The treatment for breast cancer during pregnancy is not as straightforward as it may seem.
Factors to consider:
- The size and number of tumors
- Tumor grade, which indicates how fast the cancer is likely to grow and spread
- Based on the type of breast cancer
- Your stage of pregnancy
- Your general health
For some women, their doctors recommend that they should undergo surgery to remove the tumor before they give birth or start chemotherapy. Other women have a lumpectomy with radiation therapy afterwards. Chemotherapy is considered safest among all the other treatment options, yet it is highly advised to consult the best oncologist in Pune, take a second opinion before undergoing treatment.
Treatment in First Trimester
First Trimester is the time when a patient has an option to terminate the pregnancy if they are diagnosed with breast cancer and are willing to reduce the risks. Mastectomy is the preferred treatment option at this stage. It is recommended that patients should undergo this procedure as soon as possible after diagnosis because it can prevent the spread of cancer cells. Avoid chemotherapy at this stage.
Treatment in Second Trimester
The guidelines recommend either mastectomy or lumpectomy as the best treatment option for breast cancer during the second trimester of pregnancy. The decision is typically made by taking into account several factors. Chemotherapy may be prescribed before surgery. In the event that your doctor might suggest you have a lumpectomy, radiation therapy and hormonal therapy first followed by child birth.
Treatment in Third Trimester
Mastectomy or Lumpectomy is generally recommended when diagnosed with breast cancer in the third trimester of pregnancy. In fact, chemotherapy is considered safe during this stage. If the patient requires to undergo Radiation and Hormone therapy, they need to wait until the baby is born. It is best to avoid targeted therapy during all stages of cancer. Do consult your cancer specialist in Pune regarding it.
Breastfeeding after Treatment
Breastfeeding after breast cancer treatment has been a controversial topic in recent years. Breastfeeding can be beneficial for women with breast cancer, but it can also have some risks associated with it. After a lumpectomy, scar tissue and reduced milk production can be an issue. The drugs of chemotherapy drugs, targeted therapy and hormone therapy can also be passed on to your baby through breastfeeding. It is better to consult your oncosurgeon and lactation expert before initiating breastfeeding.
Best Cancer Hospital in Pune for Breast Cancer Treatment
Galaxy Care Hospital is the best cancer hospital in Pune. We offer comprehensive treatment for breast cancer. Our hospital uses the latest technology equipment, and facilities to ensure that patients are given the best possible treatment. We also offer a range of services such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, breast reconstruction surgery and breast cancer surgery. Once at Galaxy Care Hospital, you will get the best treatment. Book your appointment for a consultation today!
