Pregnant Women Are Also Affected by Breast Cancer – Self-Examination May Be Key to Saving Lives
The period of pregnancy is one of the happiest times for many women, filled with the joy of expectancy and the excitement of motherhood. However, this time is not only associated with positive experiences, but also carries numerous health challenges. Expectant mothers must pay attention to their own health, as various diseases, including pregnancy-related breast cancer, can emerge during pregnancy. This type of cancer refers to breast tumors diagnosed during pregnancy or within one year after childbirth, which unfortunately is becoming increasingly common.
Pregnancy-related breast cancer poses a serious problem, as in many cases, women are diagnosed late due to neglecting self-examination. Lumps detected in the breast are often attributed to changes related to pregnancy, even though timely detection of these diseases can save lives. Raising awareness and providing proper information is crucial for expectant mothers to pay attention to their own health and seek medical help promptly if they experience any suspicious symptoms.
The “For the Health of Our Breasts” Nursing Program aims to raise awareness about breast cancer prevention and regular self-examination, as awareness and early detection can play a key role in the successful treatment of the disease.
What is pregnancy-related breast cancer?
Pregnancy-related breast cancer refers to a malignant tumor that develops during pregnancy or within one year after childbirth. Its symptoms are similar to those experienced by non-pregnant women, such as lumps detected in the breast or armpit, skin changes, or pain. Under the influence of pregnancy hormones, breast tissues undergo significant changes, making it difficult to identify symptoms. Thus, in many cases, women do not pay sufficient attention to the lumps that appear and only seek medical help late.
It is important for women to be aware that the risk of cancer development exists even during pregnancy. Diagnosing the disease at an advanced stage can often have tragic consequences, so it is essential for expectant mothers to perform regular self-examinations. Any abnormalities detected during self-examination should be reported to a doctor immediately, as early diagnosis provides the opportunity for appropriate treatment.
Treating pregnancy-related breast cancer is a complex task, but thanks to advancements in modern medicine, safe treatments are now available even in the later stages of pregnancy that do not endanger the health of the fetus. Therefore, it is important for women to know their options and not hesitate to consult a doctor if they notice any symptoms.
The importance of self-examination
Self-examination is an essential part of maintaining breast health, especially during pregnancy. Women should perform self-examination regularly, for example, once a month, to detect any abnormalities such as lumps or changes around the nipples. During self-examination, women may notice that their breasts change during pregnancy, but it is important to take any unusual sensations or observations seriously.
The “For the Health of Our Breasts” Nursing Program aims to teach young girls proper self-examination techniques as early as high school. The program emphasizes that regular self-examination is important not only during pregnancy but throughout a woman’s life. Thanks to self-examination, women can detect changes early, which can contribute to the early diagnosis of cancer.
Through free training organized by nurses, women can learn the proper techniques that help maintain breast health. Self-examination plays a role not only in preserving women’s health but also in making them more aware of their own bodies.
To prevent pregnancy-related breast cancer, women should participate in the opportunities offered by the program and actively seek information about breast cancer prevention. The combination of self-examination and regular medical check-ups can significantly reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Prevention and raising awareness
To prevent pregnancy-related breast cancer, it is important to raise awareness and take preventive steps. Women need to know that they are at risk of breast cancer even during pregnancy, which is why screening tests and medical check-ups are essential. During regular medical examinations, gynecologists and mammography specialists can help detect potential problems early.
Within the framework of the “For the Health of Our Breasts” Nursing Program, women can receive information about proper lifestyle, the importance of nutrition, and stress management, all of which can contribute to maintaining breast health. Proper nutrition and regular exercise play important roles not only in preserving overall health but also in cancer prevention.
Additionally, community campaigns and local events aimed at raising breast cancer awareness can help women understand the risks of the disease and the importance of prevention. Sharing information and passing on experiences play a key role in raising awareness and contribute to the preservation of women’s health.
Overall, pregnancy-related breast cancer is a serious issue, but with proper information, self-examination, and medical check-ups, it can often be prevented or detected early. Women must be attentive to their own health and actively participate in cancer screening programs to preserve their own health and that of their children.
