I am 33 and was diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago. I had a modified radical mastectomy and completed six months of chemotherapy. I was a stage 1, and my tumor was estrogen-responsive. Now I'm wondering if having another baby will increase my chance of getting breast cancer again. My son is nine, and I would like to have another child. I have talked to my doctors and read a lot of articles, and there seems to be nothing concrete on whether it will or will not come back. I have been healthy ever since the cancer, and I have been seeing all my doctors on schedule.

Sheena

Most research indicates that a pregnancy after breast cancer does not increase the chance of recurrence. This does not mean that a recurrence will not happen; it just means it is no more likely to happen in someone who becomes pregnant than in someone who does not. Since most breast cancers occur within the first two years after treatment, we do recommend waiting until at least two years have passed before attempting pregnancy.

I would recommend discussing your desire to have another child with your oncologist. Although two years is the waiting period advocated by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), your doctor may recommend additional time before you try to conceive. Also, a mammogram before pregnancy is a good idea. Be sure to have a preconception visit with your obstetrician as well, and make sure he or she knows you have been treated for breast cancer.