Thank you to all those who responded to my request a couple of weeks ago
about a first time, 41 year old mother who wants to try breastfeeding her
first baby (due in October) following a lumpectomy for breast cancer, but
had been discouraged by her family practice physician.  I have gotten to
talk to her directly now, and she was very excited to hear that others have
had some success in this situation.  She now plans to give it a try.  It
turns out, when I spoke with her myself, that she also had radiation
treatment to this breast.  This was 6 years ago.  I shared with her the 2
cases described on p. 394 of the Riordan and Auerbach book (she is a
biologist).  The affected breast has not enlarged as the untreated breast
has, as was true in the case described in the book.  I have encouraged her
to be willing to go for it and see what will happen, that milk supply could
be lower on the affected side, and that she can adequately nourish a baby
using only one breast if necessary..  She is eager to know if anyone has
additional experience nursing after radiation.  I said I'd ask you all.

TIA (Which means "thanks in advance.")  I have found this network so
helpful, and am becoming quickly addicted!

Anne Altshuler, RN, MS, IBCLC, LLL leader and Mom of the Sulman family
e-mail address:  [log in to unmask]