A qualitative investigation of breast cancer survivors’ experiences with breastfeeding

Abstract

Introduction This is an exploratory, qualitative investigation of breast cancer survivors' experiences with breastfeeding. Previous studies have focused on the physiology of lactation after surgery and treatment, but have not explored factors influencing breastfeeding decisions and behavior. Methods We used purposeful sampling to identify 11 breast cancer survivors who had a child after their diagnosis and treatment. Participants were recruited from among those in the Women's Healthy Eating and Living (WHEL) study and a Young Survival Coalition (YSC) affiliate. We conducted semi-structured, open-ended telephone interviews lasting 45-75 min. We used social cognitive theory (SCT) to structure questions regarding influences on breastfeeding behavior. We transcribed interviews and used cross-case, inductive analysis to identify themes. Results Ten of 11 participants initiated breastfeeding. The following main themes emerged: 1) Cautiously hopeful, 2) Exhausting to rely on one breast, 3) Motivated despite challenges, 4) Support and lack of support, and 5) Encouraging to others. Discussion/Conclusions Study participants were highly motivated to breastfeed but faced considerable challenges. Participants described problems that are not unique to women with breast cancer, but experienced these to a much greater degree because they relied mostly or entirely on one lactating breast. This study revealed a need for improved access to information and support and greater sensitivity to the obstacles faced by breast cancer survivors. Implications for cancer survivors Results of this qualitative analysis indicate that interventions to support the efforts of breast cancer survivors who are interested in breastfeeding are warranted. Additional research would aid in the development of such interventions.

Pregnancy after breast cancer: if you wish, ma’am

“…Women previously treated for breast cancer face a unique physical and emotional condition that might impact their decisions and ability to breastfeed [62].…”

Pregnancy After Breast Cancer

“…Beyond these, breast cancer survivors face unique physical and emotional factors that might impact their decision and ability to breastfeed. A qualitative research explored by an interview the experience and the feelings about breastfeeding in a selected group of breast cancer survivors [ 32 ]. Generally, patients alleged the wish to breastfeed, but also anxiety and concerns about doing it.…”

“…Proximity of the surgical incision to the nipple-areola complex, dose and type of radiation therapy may reduce or inhibit lactation. Thus, many patients can breastfeed from the untreated breast only, with consequent uncertainty about whether or not the milk supply would be suffi cient for the infant [ 32 ]. Failure to nurse from one breast should not affect the use of the other and the mother should be reassured about the adequacy of milk production by a single breast, suffi cient for the nutritional need of the newborn.…”

Pregnancy after Breast Cancer: Myths and Facts

“…In the recent IBCCS study history of breastfeeding was not correlated with the risk of BC [45], but the study was not powered to rule out a possible protective effect. Women previously treated for BC face a unique physical and emotional status that might impact their decisions and ability to breastfeed [53]. In a single analysis comparing 25 and 27 BC survivors who had bottle-fed and breastfed their children, respectively, 6 and 1 deaths were reported for the 2 groups [54].…”

“…Adequate counseling plays an important role in achieving successful lactation in these women [58,59] who should also be reassured about the nutritional adequacy of milk production by a single breast [55]. Until further data is available, we believe that there is no need to restrict breastfeeding which is associated with improved maternal quality of life and fetal benefits [53,60].…”