Is it safe to breastfeed after cancer diagnosis?

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.
“Chemotherapy medications can also harm good cells, such as those that produce milk,” says Dr. Sudha Sinha, Clinical Director, Medical Oncology, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad shared insights with The India Today publication. “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. 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.
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