Answer:

Patients with stage 0 breast cancer typically undergo lumpectomy (removal of the tumor) and radiation therapy, or a mastectomy followed by breast reconstruction for cosmetic purposes. Reproductive health is generally not affected, and patients can conceive soon after treatment. Pregnancy after stage 0 breast cancer treatment does not impact overall health.

Contraception is necessary during breast cancer treatment if any of the following methods are used:

Chemotherapy: Some chemotherapy drugs can damage cells and weaken the heart, increasing the risk of heart problems during pregnancy. Chemotherapy is particularly harmful to the fetus during the first trimester.

Doctor Tan examines a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Radiation therapy: While the chest wall is the primary target area, some scattered radiation can affect the uterus. Therefore, pregnancy should be avoided during radiation therapy, following the doctor's advice.

Hormone therapy: While hormone therapy doesn't cause infertility, it can reduce fertility. Most hormone therapies for breast cancer last for 5 years. Pregnancy should be avoided during this time, as these therapies can cause birth defects. After stopping hormone therapy, fertility naturally declines.

Targeted therapy: If targeted therapy is prescribed, contraception should be used until treatment is completed. This therapy is often used after surgery or for advanced breast cancer in women with Her2-positive breast cancer.

Immunotherapy: There are currently no studies confirming the safety of immunotherapy during pregnancy. Women with breast cancer should avoid pregnancy during immunotherapy treatment.

Contraception should begin as soon as treatment starts. Women who become pregnant should consult their doctor as soon as possible to discuss options. If breast cancer is diagnosed during pregnancy, treatment may be postponed in some cases to allow for childbirth.

Non-hormonal contraceptive methods, such as condoms, diaphragms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and male or female sterilization, are recommended during breast cancer treatment.

MSc. MD Huynh Ba Tan

Department of Breast and Head and Neck Surgery

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM