Psychological Aspects of Pregnancy and Lactation in Patients with Breast Cancer

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2020:1252:199-207. doi: 10.1007/978-3-030-41596-9_28.

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.

Keywords: Breast cancer; Breastfeeding; Mental Health; Pregnancy; Psychological Aspects.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety
  • Breast Feeding
  • Breast Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lactation / psychology*
  • Postpartum Period / psychology
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Neoplastic / psychology*