Breast Cancer During Pregnancy
Breast lumps are common, especially during pregnancy, when the breasts may feel firmer, heavier and lumpier than usual as the body prepares for breastfeeding. Although it can be alarming to find a breast lump during pregnancy, it is usually nothing more than a clogged milk duct. Among pregnant and non-pregnant women alike, the vast majority of breast lumps are benign. While it is possible to be diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy, it is rare.
The compassionate team of specialists in Tampa General Hospital’s Cancer Institute and Breast Cancer Center understands that breast cancer during pregnancy presents a unique set of concerns and challenges for women. When treating a pregnant woman for breast cancer, we develop a personalized care plan to address the cancer while protecting her baby.
What Causes Breast Cancer During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy does not cause breast cancer. In fact, studies show that pregnancy and breastfeeding can actually lower the risk of breast tumors. Scientists attribute this phenomenon to changes that occur in a woman’s breasts during pregnancy and breastfeeding, which make the breast cells less likely to undergo cancerous changes in the future. Additionally, women who give birth before age 20 and/or breastfeed for longer than a year may have an even lower risk of developing certain types of breast cancer.
What Are the Symptoms of Breast Cancer During Pregnancy?
Because a woman’s breasts naturally swell and become tender during pregnancy, it can be difficult to differentiate normal pregnancy-related changes from those that could be related to cancer. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to be especially vigilant for possible signs of breast cancer, such as:
- A lump or thickening in a breast
- Breast irritation or itching
- Breast hardness or warmth
- Peeling or flaking nipple skin
- Bloody discharge from a nipple
- Dimpled or puckered breast skin
- Redness or pitting of the breast skin (similar to the appearance of an orange peel)
How Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed During Pregnancy?
If breast cancer is suspected during pregnancy, a physician will likely recommend diagnostic testing, which may include:
- Imaging, such as a mammogram or breast ultrasound
- Blood work
- A biopsy
Mammogram While Pregnant
Mammography is an X-ray imaging technique that can be safely used during pregnancy. The amount of radiation involved is small and focused solely on the breasts. During the test, a lead shield is placed over the woman’s belly to help prevent the radiation from reaching her womb.
How Is Breast Cancer Treated During Pregnancy?
If a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy, her treatment plan can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor and the term of her pregnancy. For both pregnant and non-pregnant women, surgery is usually the first-line treatment for early-stage breast cancer. A surgical procedure such as a lumpectomy or mastectomy can be safely performed during pregnancy with minimal risk to the unborn child.
The effects of hormone therapy on unborn children are not yet fully understood. Therefore, if hormone therapy is appropriate for a pregnant woman with breast cancer, it will most likely be delayed until after her baby is born.
Chemotherapy While Pregnant
Depending on the type of breast cancer and the stage of the pregnancy, chemotherapy may be a treatment option for a pregnant woman. During pregnancy, there are specific windows of time when chemo can be safely administered without affecting the unborn child.
Benefit From World-Class Care at TGH
Whether or not you are pregnant, your breast cancer journey at TGH will be guided by dedicated care navigators who will ensure that you are fully supported and informed throughout your diagnosis and treatment. If would like to talk with an expert on our team, contact us at (800) 844-4554 to request an appointment.