Breastfeeding mothers who have undergone a mastectomy may find themselves navigating a new and often challenging journey. How do you manage feeding your little one while also caring for your health after such a significant procedure? This question can weigh heavily on the minds of many new moms, especially as they balance the physical and emotional changes that follow surgery. We spoke to our expert Dr Shilpa S Apte, MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Apollo Cradle and Children’s Hospital, Bengaluru, who shed light on the various paths mothers can take during this transformative time.
Mastectomy is a procedure involving the removal of one or both breasts or other tissues like lymph nodes, surgically, concerning cancer. According to a 2016 study, mastectomy is a procedure performed on two main groups of women. It is a suitable surgical option for those diagnosed with breast cancer who either cannot undergo Breast-Conserving Therapy (BCT) or prefer not to pursue it. Mastectomy accounts for about 35% of all breast cancer treatments and can be carried out using various techniques tailored to the specific clinical situation.
“Cancer treatment is based on the severity of the condition. Also based on the individual’s health status, treatment options like surgical treatment which includes single or double mastectomy, and chemotherapy options are available,” added Dr Apte.
Options for Breastfeeding Mothers
Dr Apte listed some of the options that can be opted by breastfeeding mothers:
- Single mastectomy: A woman can feed her infant with the help of another unaffected breast. The body can provide sufficient amounts of milk to fill the essential nutrients required by the baby.
- Combination feeding: Process where the baby is offered a food source apart from breast milk. One of which is bottle feeding where the baby is fed on formula powder that has been dissolved in warm water under the doctor’s advice. This is useful for mothers who cannot produce breast milk, mostly due to sickness or pregnancy complications. The other one is to switch to whichever is capable of satisfying the child’s need for breast milk while also supplying them with the necessary nutrients.
- Donor milk: Based on the doctor’s suggestions, a mother can also opt for donor milk for her baby. Breast milk from certified milk banks is safe for the baby.
Also Read: Mastectomy Or Lumpectomy: What Is The Difference And Which Is Better For You?
Post-Mastectomy Care
After undergoing a mastectomy mothers need to prioritise their recovery, while also focusing on their baby's nutritional needs. Here are some health measures listed by Dr Apte that you should follow:
- For the development of an infant, breast milk is the most important aspect. However, a mother should avoid breastfeeding during the chemotherapy process, because the medicines may pass onto the milk and potentially harm the baby.
- As per doctors' advice, exercise must be followed. Rigorous exercise like heavy weight lifting can result in tiredness and weight loss. As part of post-mastectomy care, a woman can prefer easy exercises like walking, meditation, and simple shoulder exercises. This way the body stays active.
- Consuming balanced food includes proteins like pulses, dals, sprouts, lean meat, eggs, and dairy products. Also, antioxidants-rich fruits and vegetables like berries, spinach, carrots and sweet potatoes, and whole grains like wheat chapati, rice, ragi, oats, quinoa, and brown rice, help in quick healing and reduce inflammation.
- Proper hydration like drinking plenty of water and herbal teas, helps in removing toxins from the body.
- Avoiding sugary and processed foods helps in quick recovery.
Bottomline
Dr Apte concluded, "Post-mastectomy for a woman is a new beginning of life because a woman has to take care of herself and the baby. A woman has to communicate with the doctor for tailored treatment options. Seeking support from friends and family is the best option, as it provides emotional and mental support. Also following diet, exercise, and by reducing stress, can help in overcoming the challenges of mastectomy."
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]