In lieu of October being breast cancer awareness month, we're here to discuss breast cancer and some things you may not know about the subject matter. 

For one, can mothers who have had breast cancer before, breastfeed their babies safely? 

Here's your answer

Mothers can do it, however it is not as straightforward as a yes or no. 

There are two main groups of breastfeeding mothers post breast cancer. The first are those who are diagnosed during breastfeeding. This group can continue to nurse so long as treatment has not been started. 

The second group are survivors who conceive later on. They may breastfeed depending on treatment history and physical condition. 

Ultimately, the treatment type is what determines breastfeeding safety. 

What are the treatment types?

— Lumpectomy: Possible to breastfeed if milk production remains.

— Single mastectomy: Can nurse from the unaffected breast.

— Double mastectomy: Breastfeeding is not possible.

— Radiation therapy: Doesnt transfer into milk, but may affect milk production.

— Chemotherapy & hormone therapy: Unsafe for breastfeeding due to drug transfer into milk.

The challenges

Nevertheless, there are some challenges mothers may face. First can be engorgement, clogged ducts or mastitis. This can occur in the remaining breast and give out cancer symptoms. 

Besides that, there could also be a lower milk supply, because surgery can come in the way of milk ducts. Finally is nipple soreness and physical imbalance, due to nursing from only one breast. 

Can breastfeeding bring the cancer back?

There is no significant evidence which suggest that breastfeeding worsens recurrence risk. As a matter of fact breastfeeding may reduce the risk.