New Delhi: The first week of August is observed as World Breastfeeding Week. This 7-day duration is observed to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding for a healthy mother and baby. However, at a time when cancer has become an important cause of concern, many are unsure about how women with breast cancer must go about breastfeeding. Breast cancer is a condition characterised by the growth of a potentially deadly tumour in the breast tissue. It is one of the most common forms of cancer reported in women residing in metropolitan India.
How should women with breast cancer go about breastfeeding?
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Rujul Jhaveri, Consultant Gynaecologist at Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, explained how women living with the disease can go about this complication.
“Breast cancer in expectant mothers poses unique challenges, as treatment timing and type depend on both the mother’s and unborn child’s health. After birth, breastfeeding may be affected depending on the cancer’s extent and treatment. For women with breast cancer, breastfeeding is not always normal or possible. Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation impairs milk production or necessitates breast removal. However, if only one breast is affected and the other remains healthy, breastfeeding may continue from the unaffected breast. In cases where chemotherapy is involved, breastfeeding is typically discouraged,” said Dr Jhaveri.
Dr. Nayana Kumari S Kadamba, Consultant Gynaecologist at SS SPARSH Hospital, RR Nagar, Bangalore, also shared insights on the same.
“Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that develops from the cells of the breast. It significantly impacts a woman’s ability to breastfeed, especially if surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy is required. These treatments alter the breast tissue and reduce milk production. In some cases, breastfeeding may still be possible from the unaffected breast if it remains healthy. However, if both breasts are involved or if treatment severely affects milk supply, alternative feeding methods, such as formula or donor milk, becomes necessary.”
Dr. Swetha S. Reddy, Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician at Sparsh Hospital, Bangalore, spoke about how chemotherapy takes a toll on breast milk production.
“Breast cancer significantly impacts breastfeeding, particularly when treatment involves surgery or chemotherapy. These interventions directly impact breast and milk production, making breastfeeding challenging or impossible. The impact on the child depends on the severity of the cancer and treatment. In cases where treatment affects both breasts or if chemotherapy drugs are present in breast milk, breastfeeding is not recommended. This is to protect the child from potential exposure to harmful substances. In such situations, alternative feeding methods are considered. Mothers need to work closely with their doctors to determine the safest and healthiest options for both themselves and their babies. Breastfeeding can be considered post-surgery in a select few before chemotherapy or radiotherapy. But breastfeeding is discouraged in patients receiving chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy and hormone therapy,” explained Dr Reddy.
Breast cancer significantly impacts breastfeeding, particularly when treatment involves surgery or chemotherapy. These interventions directly impact breast and milk production, making breastfeeding challenging or impossible. The impact on the child depends on the severity of the cancer and treatment. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
