Is it safe to breastfeed after cancer diagnosis?
'There is always a good reason for everything. When we found out that my tumour was second-stage cancer, I was still feeding him... weaning off was good because I was relieved to know that he didn't have to be fed what I was supposed to have, like medications, etc," she said.CAN MOTHERS WITH CANCER CONTINUE BREASTFEEDING?Experts say that breastfeeding should usually stop once cancer treatment begins. Most cancer drugs, including chemotherapy, hormone treatments, and targeted therapy can pass into breast milk and may harm the baby.According to Dr. Varshali Mali, senior obstetrician-gynaecologist at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune, stopping breastfeeding also makes surgery easier and reduces the risk of breast infections during treatment.
Most cancer drugs, including chemotherapy, hormone treatments, and targeted therapy can pass into breast milk and may harm the baby. ()
advertisementSome chemotherapy drugs, like cyclophosphamide and methotrexate, are known to be present in breast milk in amounts that can cause harm. These drugs can lead to side effects in babies such as low white blood cell counts, vomiting, and even developmental delays, especially in babies younger than six months."Chemotherapy medications can also harm good cells, such as those that produce milk," says Dr. Sudha Sinha, Clinical Director, Medical Oncology, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad.Even though the amount of these drugs in milk might reduce over time, babies are far more sensitive to the side effects than adults.Radiation treatment also brings risks. It can damage the milk-producing tissue in the breast, which could lead to changes in milk content or even stop milk production entirely.'Breastfeeding is generally not advised if the mother is getting systemic cancer therapy or if there is a possibility of milk contamination,' says Dr. Sinha.Radiation aimed at parts of the body other than the breasts is less likely to affect breastfeeding, but it depends on the dosage and area treated.
Even though the amount of these drugs in milk might reduce over time, babies are far more sensitive to the side effects than adults. ()
Some hormone-based and targeted cancer drugs also enter breast milk and can stay there for months, posing unknown risks to the baby.CAN HUMAN MILK BE STORED OR DONATED?If a mother has to stop breastfeeding during treatment, donor human milk can be a safe alternative. Milk banks pasteurise and screen all donated milk to ensure safety.'Human milk banking can have its pros and cons,' says Dr. Mali.She points out that donor milk lowers the risk of infection and stomach issues in preterm babies compared to formula. However, pasteurisation may reduce some of its natural benefits, and many people are not aware that such milk banks exist.EMOTIONAL IMPACT OF FORCED WEANINGStopping breastfeeding suddenly, especially due to illness, can be emotionally painful. Mothers often feel grief, guilt, or anxiety over not being able to continue.'Abrupt weaning can put breastfeeding mothers under significant distress,' says Dr. Mali. She recommends support groups, mental health counselling, and clear communication with family members to help mothers cope.Dr. Sinha adds that slowly reducing breastfeeding sessions can ease the transition for both mother and child. Mothers might receive assistance from lactation consultants, psychologists, or counsellors.
Stopping breastfeeding suddenly, especially due to illness, can be emotionally painful. ()
advertisementThese professionals can guide mothers on how to manage discomfort from engorgement or mastitis, and how to express milk safely during treatment.WHEN CAN BREASTFEEDING RESUME?If only one breast was treated with radiation, mothers can usually start breastfeeding from the unaffected breast once the skin has healed—typically within 4 to 6 weeks.This timing can vary depending on the radiation dose and healing. Regular medical checkups and open communication with the healthcare team are essential to ensure both mother and baby stay safe during this time.In cases where breastfeeding is no longer possible, donor milk remains the next best option.However, Dr. Sinha warns that access to donor milk may be limited, and mothers may continue to struggle with feelings of loss.Must Watch
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The bread and cheese add more protein content to support muscle repair after workouts and carbs to sustain energy. This nutrient-dense, high-protein sandwich is an ideal pre- or post-workout meal, helping fuel your workouts and support muscle recovery.' ⦿ Ingredients ¾ cup boiled and crushed sweet corn kernels ¾ cup boiled moong sprouts 8 white bread slices 1 tbsp butter + for applying 1 tsp oil 2 green chillies, chopped 1 small green capsicum, finely chopped 1½ tbsps green chutney ¾ cup grated processed cheese Salt to taste Tomato ketchup to serve ⦿ Method 1. Heat butter and oil in a non-stick pan. Add green chillies and sauté for 20 seconds. 2. Add green capsicum, and mix well. Add crushed sweet corn, and boiled moong sprouts and mix well. Cook for 1 minute. 3. Take the pan off the heat and transfer the mixture into a large bowl. Add green chutney, processed cheese and salt and mix well. 4. Apply butter on one side of all the bread slices. 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