BREAST CANCER TREATMENT DURING PREGNANCY

Abstract

Breast cancer during pregnancy represents a complex clinical and emotional challenge, as it involves the simultaneous management of maternal and fetal health. The physiological changes of pregnancy often mask the early signs of the disease, leading to delayed diagnosis and compromised prognosis. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the characteristics, development rates, and difficulties faced by pregnant women during breast cancer treatment, as well as to identify the emotional experiences and the safety of therapeutic approaches. This is a bibliographic and descriptive study, conducted through an integrative literature review using publications from 2015 to 2024 available in the SciELO, LILACS, PubMed, and BVS Saúde databases. The results indicate that diagnosis generally occurs late, surgical treatment is considered safe in all trimesters, and chemotherapy is recommended only after the second trimester, with a low risk of fetal malformations. The most frequent neonatal outcomes were preterm birth and low birth weight. From an emotional perspective, feelings of fear, guilt, anguish, and uncertainty prevailed, emphasizing the need for psychological and social support. It is concluded that the management of breast cancer during pregnancy requires an interdisciplinary approach, individualized protocols, and comprehensive care for both mother and fetus, prioritizing therapeutic efficacy alongside humanized care.