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Misunderstandings About Breastfeeding and Cancer Delayed My Vital Treatment
Navigating the world of motherhood often means confronting mixed messages about breastfeeding and breast cancer. Many women assume that nursing guarantees immunity against breast cancer. While it’s true that breastfeeding can reduce your risk, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t make you invincible. In fact, one in eight women will face a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Before my own diagnosis, I didn’t know a single person who had it. Since then, however, three friends have been diagnosed, and two others found lumps, but thankfully they received clear results.
This message is especially for mothers who are nursing or weaning. If you discover a lump that you suspect is a clogged duct and it hasn’t changed after two weeks, please consult your doctor. If the lump grows, definitely seek medical advice. If your doctor hesitates to order a mammogram, push for an ultrasound. These steps could be life-saving.
I welcomed my daughter in September 2015 at the age of 36. Having had previous miscarriages, I was genuinely surprised to become a mother. I had set a goal to breastfeed for a full year, but I had to stop short at 11 months due to a drastic decrease in milk production. I would pump for at least an hour on both sides and be thrilled to yield just two ounces.
Around this time, I first noticed a lump. Assuming it was a clogged duct, I attempted to massage it away. After three weeks of no changes, I called my doctor. The nurse suggested I keep massaging and to check back in three days if there was no improvement. I waited a week before reaching out again, and they finally scheduled me for a mammogram and ultrasound.
The following week, I had both tests done. Just four hours later, I received the call: they needed to perform a biopsy. At that moment, I knew it was likely cancer. Subsequent tests confirmed my fears — I had an aggressive form of invasive ductal carcinoma at stage 2b, with a grade 3 tumor. My oncologist revealed that the tumor had developed within just six weeks.
During this challenging week of waiting for results, a friend connected me with a breast cancer survivor. It was comforting to talk to someone who had weathered the same storm. Even if you feel tough, having someone who understands can make a world of difference. We still keep in touch.
On October 6, the results came in. That week of uncertainty was tough, but I had mentally prepared myself, hoping for the best while preparing for the worst. I had researched breast cancer online, suspecting it might be in the later stages, but I knew I had to stay strong for my daughter.
It turned out to be the aggressive cancer I dreaded. My treatment needed to start immediately. I was diagnosed with stage 2b invasive ductal carcinoma, and my tumor was growing rapidly.
This is why I urge all moms to perform regular breast checks. While all women should be vigilant, nursing mothers often misinterpret lumps as clogged ducts. If a lump persists longer than two weeks, seek medical attention — pain doesn’t rule out cancer.
Although facing cancer is daunting, it’s essential to choose to fight and find the silver linings. I’m currently done with chemotherapy and preparing for surgery and radiation. I’ll be undergoing a mastectomy, followed by radiation, then a mastectomy on the other breast, and finally, reconstruction. I’m grateful for my life, and the support from friends and family has been invaluable.
For more guidance on this topic, check out our blog post on how to connect with health professionals here. And if you’re on the journey to motherhood, resources like Make a Mom can be incredibly helpful. You can also find excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination at WebMD.
Summary
This article highlights the misconceptions surrounding breastfeeding and breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of regular breast checks for nursing mothers. Jamie Collins shares her personal experience with a late diagnosis of breast cancer and stresses the necessity of seeking medical advice if any concerning symptoms arise. She encourages women to advocate for their health and remain vigilant, no matter their breastfeeding status.