Cancer and Pregnancy Blog - 8th August
Published on 08 August 2023 03:33 PM
Read our latest Creating Cancer Caring Communities Blog - this time out, we talk about Cancer and Pregnancy.
Cancer and Pregnancy
This is a topic rarely talked about together, but did you know that two women a day are diagnosed with cancer in or around pregnancy?
Finding out you have cancer is a shock at any time in life, but when you are pregnant, this news can be even more devastating. There are countless people out there who do not realise it is possible to have cancer during pregnancy, let alone be treated for it at this time. Yet one in 1000 pregnancies (more than 600 women a year) will see a cancer diagnosis according to the Royal College of Midwives.
We know that early and accurate diagnosis is key. However, lots of mums and birthing parents experience hold-ups in their diagnosis - simply because they do not match the typical profile of a cancer patient - they can be deemed as too young, too healthy, or low risk.
Cancer and Pregnancy
Body awareness is fundamental when it comes to noticing cancer symptoms, but pregnant and post-natal bodies can often conceal symptoms of cancer, making it tricky to distinguish between normal changes and those that are more worrying. ‘Knowledge of cancer and pregnancy is so vital that early signs are not missed or mistaken as something to do with a woman’s pregnancy’, according to Pete Wallroth, founder and CEO of Mummy’s Star; a charity that supports women diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy.
We also know that finding cancer early usually increases treatment options and improves your chances of recovery. Some cancer symptoms, though, are mistakenly thought to be part of the pregnancy (Changes in breast size, shape and texture, vaginal bleeding, stomach pains and cramps) It can be easy to ignore the signs, delay or make excuses. But it is imperative to tell someone right away if anything does not look, feel, or function right. All symptoms should, and need to be, investigated.
Your Stories
Below are some 'real-life' stories that could resonate with you or a loved one.
Hear from Jenny, about the importance of early detection of cancer treatment -
Mummy's Star - See The Symptom - Cancer and Pregnancy Awareness Week 2022 - YouTube
Kimberley was diagnosed with tonsil cancer in 2015, while pregnant with her second child. You can read Kimberley's story here.
Could it be cancer?
This is a daunting question, but one that could save lives. Anyone can notice and report symptoms: whether that be mums/birthing parents, partners, midwives, GPs, or sonographers. Every person has a part to play.
Check this out, an infographic video encouraging everyone to get comfortable with asking: could it be cancer? If you have symptoms, tests can normally be done without harming the baby, and your doctor can answer any questions you may have. Be open with them about your feelings and worries.
Help and Support
Always remember, there is help and support out there. Mummy’s Star has an Online Forum for Mums to share their concerns and ask any questions, or just to take the time to read and absorb the information. The forum is a safe space for women to share their thoughts and receive invaluable support 24/7. Many mums say it is a lifeline and find it reassuring to know that they can reach out to a community that listens and understands what they are going through at such an uncertain and challenging time.
You can find lots more information, advice and support at Cancer and pregnancy awareness week (macmillan.org.uk) and Pregnancy and cancer | Macmillan Cancer Support.
Macmillan's Online Community is an online forum where you can talk with and meet people who are going through similar experiences. It is available 24/7. The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. If you have any questions or just want to talk, they are there to help. Call them on 0808 808 00 00.
That's it for this week - take a breather and enjoy your evening.
Photo by Anna Hecker on Unsplash