Cancer diagnosis during the postpartum period, though rare, poses significant challenges. The primary concern is the potential transmission of harmful substances to the infant through breast milk, especially if the mother is undergoing chemotherapy or taking other cancer-related medications. Additionally, the physical and emotional toll of cancer and its treatment can significantly affect a mother’s ability to breastfeed.

• Chemotherapy and Breastfeeding: Chemotherapy drugs are powerful medications designed to target rapidly dividing cancer cells. Unfortunately, these drugs can also affect healthy cells and may be excreted into breast milk, posing a risk to the breastfeeding infant. Breastfeeding mothers with cancer undergoing chemotherapy are often advised to discontinue breastfeeding due to the potential for drug transfer and the associated risks to the baby. Each medication has different properties, so the decision must be tailored to the individual case, considering the specific drugs and the mother’s health status.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy, which targets specific areas of the body, presents another set of considerations. Localized radiation, especially if administered to areas away from the breasts, may not necessitate the cessation of breastfeeding. However, systemic treatments, or those involving the breasts, may require temporary or permanent discontinuation of breastfeeding.
• Surgical Interventions: Surgery, including mastectomy or lumpectomy, can impact a mother’s ability to produce milk, depending on the extent of the procedure and the remaining breast tissue. Post-surgery, mothers may face pain and physical limitations that can interfere with breastfeeding.