Breast ultrasound in pregnancy

Breast cancer in pregnancy

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers detected during pregnancy and postpartum. Breast cancer in pregnancy is considered to be cancer that occurred during pregnancy or within 1. One year after giving birth. Although breast cancer mainly affects postmenopausal women, it can also affect younger women. In recent years, the age of becoming pregnant has also been shifting, and as a result, there is a greater risk of pregnant women developing lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes and the aforementioned cancers.

Breast ultrasound in pregnancy-when to perform?

Due to the increase in the incidence of breast cancer, the Polish Oncology Society, together with the Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians, has published recommendations on breast cancer in 2018. Breast ultrasound in pregnancy. According to them, every pregnant woman after 35. Year old should have a breast ultrasound in I. or II. trimester. In younger patients, however, ultrasound should also be considered in I. or II. trimester. In practice, many gynecologists give a referral for a breast ultrasound as early as the 1st. pregnancy visit. If, as a mother-to-be, you have not received such a referral, ask for one at your next appointment. This is because it is not true that due to the changes that occur in the breasts during pregnancy or lactation, ultrasound is unreliable. Specialists point out that it is screening in nature, and its purpose is to detect nodules, which the pregnant gland does not interfere with. However, it is important to note that mammograms should not be performed during pregnancy due to X-rays. The exception is when its performance is necessary for the health of the woman.

Breast ultrasound in pregnancy-who to go to?

Breast ultrasound is performed by gynecologists and radiologists. Not every gynecologist specializes in breast ultrasound, so they often refer their patients to an experienced radiologist. It is important that it is a person who has to deal with pregnant or breastfeeding patients. This avoids oversights or mistakes. The next course of action depends on the outcome. In the case of BIRADS 1 or 2, the control is performed as planned. If a breast lesion is detected, it is often necessary, among other things. Performing a biopsy of the identified nodule. This is mainly handled by surgeons or oncologic surgeons. It is very important to start diagnosis soon enough. It is recognized that diagnosis is delayed by an average of 7 months in pregnant and postpartum women.

Breast ultrasound in pregnancy- how much does it cost

A referral for a breast ultrasound can be made by a specialist such as a gynecologist. According to the information available from the National Health Service, if a doctor sees indications (such as pregnancy), a breast ultrasound is free to a woman. Unfortunately, in many clinics it is impossible to perform or waiting times are long. Many women, especially those managing their pregnancies privately, choose to use the paid services of a radiologist. Breast ultrasound costs between about £130 and £200, depending on the city.