Breast cancer during pregnancy is relatively rare — occurring in about one case for every 3,000 to 10,000 pregnancies. However, it is the most common type of cancer affecting pregnant women, and its incidence has been increasing in recent years due to delayed childbearing and improved diagnostic methods.
One of the main challenges is that the natural changes in the breast during pregnancy — such as swelling, engorgement, and increased softness — can mask early warning signs, often leading to delayed diagnosis for several months.
As part of Pink October, Dr. Aida Al Awadhi, Consultant Oncologist and Head of the Oncology and Hematology Department at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi, shares insights into the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of breast cancer during pregnancy, along with essential precautions for mothers-to-be.
1. Do the symptoms differ between pregnant and non-pregnant women?
According to Dr. Aida:
“The symptoms of breast cancer during pregnancy are similar to those in non-pregnant women.”
They include:
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The appearance of a firm lump that does not disappear over time.
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Changes in the skin or nipple, such as dimpling or retraction.
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Unusual discharge from the nipple.
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Swelling in the lymph nodes under the armpit.
While most breast lumps during pregnancy are benign, any new mass should be evaluated immediately and not ignored.
“Every pregnant woman should consult her doctor if she notices any unusual breast changes.”
2. What precautions should a pregnant woman with breast cancer take?
A pregnant woman diagnosed with breast cancer requires a carefully balanced treatment plan that ensures both maternal health and fetal safety.
She should be monitored in a specialized center with a multidisciplinary team including an oncologist, obstetrician, radiologist, and fetal medicine specialist.
Delaying diagnosis or treatment due to pregnancy should be avoided, as early management reduces complications and improves survival.
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Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are contraindicated during the first trimester, when the baby’s organs are forming.
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Certain chemotherapy drugs can be given safely during the second and third trimesters under close supervision.
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Hormonal and radiation therapies should be postponed until after delivery.
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Breastfeeding must be avoided during chemotherapy.
Dr. Aida stresses the importance of a balanced diet, rest, psychological support, and immediate reporting of symptoms such as bleeding, swelling, or severe pain.
“Cancer during pregnancy does not mean the end of hope or the need to terminate the pregnancy. With modern medicine, it is possible to continue pregnancy and receive treatment safely through careful planning and medical supervision.”
3. Is chemotherapy safe during pregnancy?
Chemotherapy can be administered only after careful evaluation.
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It is strictly prohibited in the first trimester, when the risk of miscarriage or congenital malformation is high.
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In the second and third trimesters, certain chemotherapy agents have been shown to be relatively safe when used at controlled doses under specialist supervision.
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It should be avoided during the last three weeks before delivery to prevent low immunity or platelet counts, which could increase the risk of infection or bleeding during birth.
If chemotherapy is essential, it must be performed in a specialized medical center with coordination between the oncology and obstetrics teams to ensure safety for both mother and baby.
4. What happens after delivery?
Postpartum treatment typically includes:
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Resuming postponed therapies, such as radiation, hormonal, or targeted treatments, depending on the tumor’s biology.
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Avoiding breastfeeding while undergoing chemotherapy or hormonal therapy, as some drugs can pass through breast milk.
A long-term follow-up plan is crucial in the first few years to monitor recurrence or complications and provide emotional and physical rehabilitation.
Dr. Aida advises mothers to maintain a healthy diet, rest, gentle physical activity, and good sleep, as treatment after delivery allows for greater flexibility and the use of all necessary medical options safely.
5. When is it safe to get pregnant again after recovery?
Studies show that pregnancy after recovery does not increase the risk of relapse, provided the disease is stable and treatment has been successfully completed.
6. What about herbal or alternative remedies during pregnancy?
“A pregnant woman with breast cancer should never use herbal or alternative remedies without consulting her doctor. The safety of both mother and fetus requires extreme caution.”
7. Your message to pregnant women about early detection
“Early detection is the key to survival,” says Dr. Aida.“If you notice any changes in your breast during pregnancy — such as a lump, unusual discharge, or changes in skin or nipple — don’t assume it’s just due to pregnancy. Consult your doctor immediately.Early detection makes treatment easier and outcomes far better. Pregnancy is not a barrier to diagnosis or treatment. Awareness and prompt action are the first steps to protecting both mother and baby.”
Key Takeaways
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Schedule regular prenatal breast exams.
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Report any unusual changes without delay.
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Avoid self-medication or herbal remedies.
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Rely on a multidisciplinary medical team for safety and success.
Note from Nadormagazine:Before trying any treatment or medical intervention, consult a qualified specialist.
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