Treatment options for breast cancer in pregnancy

by Specialist

For information about the treatments listed below, see the Treatment Options Overview section.

Early Breast Cancer

Treatment for pregnant women with early-stage breast cancer (stage I and II) is usually the same as for those who are not pregnant, with some variations to protect the unborn child. Treatment may include the following:

  • Modified radical surgery, if the breast cancer was diagnosed early in pregnancy.
  • Breast-conserving surgery, if the breast cancer was diagnosed late in the pregnancy. Radiation therapy may be performed after the baby is born.
  • Modified radical surgery or breast-conserving surgery during pregnancy. Certain types of chemotherapy can be given before or after surgery after the third trimester of pregnancy.

    Hormone therapy and trastuzumab should not be used during pregnancy.

    Advanced Breast Cancer

    There is no standard treatment for patients with advanced breast cancer in pregnancy (stage 3 or 4). Treatment may include the following:

  • Radiotherapy.
  • Chemotherapy.

    Radiotherapy and chemotherapy should not be administered during the first 3 months of pregnancy.