Women who have survived breast cancer and are considering becoming pregnant should consult with a doctor to discuss how their fertility could be affected by previous cancer treatments, the risks associated with pregnancy after cancer and the risk of cancer recurrence.
Time Frame
According to the American Cancer Society, many doctors advise women who have successfully completed breast cancer treatment to wait two years before becoming pregnant; there is a link between increased estrogen levels, such as while pregnant, and the growth of breast cancer cells.
Considerations
While there is no proof that receiving cancer treatment and recovering from breast cancer prior to becoming pregnant will have any adverse effects on a baby, chemotherapy can cause damage and have a negative effect on the ovaries.
Effects
Because some cancer treatments can damage internal organs and due to the amount of time needed to complete breast cancer treatment, a woman may be less likely to conceive after receiving treatment for breast cancer.
Frozen Embryos or Eggs
Women who are concerned with their future fertility and the possibility of being unable to conceive after receiving breast cancer treatment can choose to freeze their embryos or eggs before treatment begins.
Warning
Since the stress of pregnancy can lead to serious health problems, even death, for a woman if cancer treatment has damaged her heart or lungs, a breast cancer survivor should consult with an obstetrician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies before trying to conceive.
Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, cancer treatment, becoming pregnant, after receiving, breast cancer treatment, cancer treatments
