Is the chance of breast cancer high 3 months after giving birth?

The chance of breast cancer three months after childbirth does exist, but it is not high. This is related to many factors, including changes in hormone levels, breastfeeding status, and genetics. Nevertheless, some women may be at risk of breast cancer due to hormone fluctuations during pregnancy or family genetic factors. It is recommended to have regular self-examinations and physical examinations after childbirth, and seek medical attention in time if any abnormalities are found to ensure health.

1) Causes of postpartum breast cancer

Postpartum breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that occurs within one year after childbirth and during breastfeeding. Its possible causes include the following:

-Changes in hormone levels: Estrogen and progesterone levels in the body fluctuate significantly during pregnancy and postpartum periods, which may stimulate breast cells and increase the risk of abnormal proliferation.

-Breastfeeding effect: Breastfeeding helps reduce the risk of breast cancer because breast tissue is less divided during breastfeeding. However, for some women who do not breastfeed or breastfeed for a short period of time, incomplete breast recovery may increase the risk.

-Genetic risk: If a woman has a family history of breast cancer or carries a BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutation, she may be more likely to develop the disease during pregnancy or the postpartum period.

2) Methods of preventing and detecting breast cancer

- Daily breast examination: It is recommended to perform breast self-examination every month after giving birth, paying special attention to lumps, skin changes or abnormal nipple shape. If any abnormality is found, seek medical attention immediately.

-Regular physical examinations and imaging examinations: If there is a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, screening can be performed through B-ultrasound or mammography 3-6 months after delivery.

-Healthy lifestyle habits: Maintain proper exercise, a balanced diet and maintain a healthy weight. Excessive fat tissue may increase the risk of breast cancer, while reducing high-fat and high-sugar diets and insisting on breastfeeding (if conditions permit) can help prevent breast cancer.

3) What to do if breast cancer is suspected

-Confirmed by medical examination: Go to the hospital in time for detailed examinations such as breast ultrasound, mammography or magnetic resonance imaging. After the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor will formulate a treatment plan based on the clinical stage and pathological characteristics.

-Anti-tumor treatment methods: Conventional treatments for breast cancer include surgery (such as breast-conserving surgery or mastectomy), chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. For example, early-stage breast cancer patients are usually treated with surgical resection, which has a better treatment effect.

-Mental health support: Breast cancer diagnosis has a significant psychological impact on mothers. It is recommended to seek psychological counseling or professional support to balance the relationship between family, parenting and treatment.

If you find a lump or other abnormality in your breast after childbirth, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Although postpartum breast cancer is not a high incidence, self-examination, healthy lifestyle habits and regular screening are the key to controlling the risk. Early examination and early treatment can significantly increase the cure rate and ensure a smoother recovery.