The short version
- Breast cancer during pregnancy is rare, but it can be treated safely during pregnancy, with care planned by your cancer team and maternity team together.1
- Surgery is possible at any stage of pregnancy. Chemotherapy can be given from about 14 weeks. Radiotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted drugs are usually given after the birth.1
- You don’t have to cope alone: ask your breast care nurse, midwife or health visitor for support.1
Treatment during pregnancy
Your cancer team and maternity team will work together to plan treatment that’s safe for you and your baby.1
| Treatment | During pregnancy |
|---|---|
| Surgery | Possible at any time during pregnancy. Breast reconstruction is usually delayed until after the birth.1 |
| Chemotherapy | Not given in the first trimester. It can start from at least 14 weeks, and usually stops 2 to 3 weeks before the birth.1 |
| Radiotherapy | Usually given after the birth.1 |
| Hormone therapy, targeted drugs and immunotherapy | Usually given after the birth.1 |
Breastfeeding
Your cancer doctor and midwife will tell you whether you can breastfeed. Some cancer drugs pass into breast milk, and hormone therapy can’t be given while breastfeeding.1
Looking after yourself
- Gentle activity, such as walking, can help with energy and mood, if your midwife and team agree.
- Eat well and keep up your fluids, especially during chemotherapy. See eating when you feel sick.
- Rest when you can, and accept offers of help.
- Ask for emotional support. It’s a lot to cope with. Your team can refer you to a counsellor.1
Support
- Your breast care nurse, midwife and health visitor.1
- Cancer Research UK nurses: free on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.1
- Breast Cancer Now helpline: free on 0808 800 6000.2
- Mummy’s Star is a charity supporting women and families affected by cancer during pregnancy or soon after birth.
Related pages
Everyone’s treatment is different, so talk to your cancer team about what is right for you.
References
- Cancer Research UK. Breast cancer during pregnancy. www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/breast-cancer/living-with/breast-cancer-during-pregnancy
- Breast Cancer Now. Call our helpline. breastcancernow.org/support-for-you/call-our-helpline