There are an estimated 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, and with October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s an important time to reflect on the ways that breast cancer may impact motherhood. While breast cancer is more commonly diagnosed in females 40 years or older, there are still thousands of cases every year for women in their 20s and 30s, many of whom look forward to being mothers later in life. After experiencing treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, many questions remain regarding whether or not these women will be able to breastfeed their children. But breastfeeding after breast cancer is possible.
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Even for new mothers who are not cancer survivors, breastfeeding can be very difficult and require extra help from a lactation consultant or breastfeeding medicine specialist. No matter your situation, don’t forget to check in on your own postpartum mental health, as it can be heavily influenced by your breastfeeding journey, for better or for worse.
When successfully breastfeeding, the hormone oxytocin is released, leading to a stronger bond felt by the mother toward the child, and it can be a beautiful thing. However, at the end of the day, as long as your baby has a full belly of breast milk, formula, or both, you’ve fulfilled the responsibility of nourishing your child.
