For women who have yet to start a family when breast cancer is detected, this concern can add extra impact to an already difficult diagnosis. Despite promising studies, there are risks to be considered when planning a pregnancy after breast cancer treatment.

Virtually all hormonal events in a woman’s life, including age at menarche (onset of a woman's first period) and age at first full-term pregnancy are considered risk factors in the development of breast cancer. Some of the reproductive issues related to the disease include:

• Loss of fertility. Infertility from treatment can occur, either due to menopause induced by chemotherapy or damage to ovaries from radiation therapy or drugs. Induced menopause may be temporary and precautionary measures can be taken to protect the ovaries.
  
  
• Breast cancer during pregnancy. A small, but growing number of women are diagnosed during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. For some, special considerations will need to be factored into treatment protocols.