Diane:  I agree with everything you stated about the possibility of
breastfeeding with breast cancer.  I do have one issue which was brought
up by a very breastfeeding-friendly surgeon when I discussed this issue
with her:  Since a woman with breast cancer is at significantly increased
risk for another cancer in the contralateral breast (and I suppose in the
affected breast after lumpectomy), there is a problem with proper
monitoring during lactation.  Mammograms, although not contraindicated
during lactation, are more difficult to interpret. Since there has
already been the 9 months of pregnancy during which a mammogram was not
possible, her approach with a woman who wishes to breastfeed is
a cautious one of recommending breastfeeding for less than 6 months.  I am
interested to hear comments and suggestions about this.  Alicia Dermer,
MD, IBCLC.