Psychological Aspects of Pregnancy and Lactation in Patients With Breast Cancer Publisher Pubmed



Nejatisafa AA¹ ; Faccio F² ; Nalini R³
Source: Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology Published:2020

Abstract

Young breast cancer patients face numerous challenges during the cancer trajectory. As in the last decade, women tend to delay pregnancies to a later time in life, and clinicians are often faced with young breast cancer patients who want to start a family or complete it. Becoming a mother is a delicate developmental process in which the woman redefines and restructures her identity as she gets prepared for her new role and responsibilities. When there is a history of cancer or cancer diagnosis is communicated during the pregnancy, fears, worries, and concerns emerge and specific support may be necessary. Follow-ups during the post-partum period are also recommended as lactation issues should not be overlooked. In this chapter, we analyze the psychological aspects of cancer survivors and women with pregnancy-associated breast cancer, and the management of these issues. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020.