I have two primips today post status carcinoma of the breast.
R had mastectomy of one breast and augmentation of the healthy breast,
luckily not via the areola. Several months after the treatment, she was
surprised to find herself pregnant.
 D had a lumpectomy and radiation on the affected breast, but the healthy
breast is normal, showed normal development during the pregnancy.    Both
are determined to breastfeed!! Both have drops of colostrum on hand
expression. I am worried about D.  The upper quadrant of the affected breast
was untouched by the lumpectomy, and I am sure that there are ducts still in
tact.  I suppose I will have to treat it with ice packs and cabbage
compresses until the milk is reabsorbed, as I was unable to express even a
drop on colostrum on that breast.  Do any of you have any experience with a
partly functioning breast?  Any tips?
I have had  several women post mastectomy  who successfully breastfed on the
healthy breast, and they reported a kind of rebirthing from the experience.
I hope these women will also find consolation in breastfeeding their babies.
Esther Grunis, IBCLC ( counting the days until my long needed vacation and
hoping to see the Fall colors in Upstate NY soon)
Lis Maternity Hospital
Tel Aviv, Israel



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