You beat cancer and that is something to celebrate and be proud of, however, life as a breast cancer survivor may pose a lot of questions about what your future will look like. Here are answers to some of the most common questions breast cancer survivors have.
Can I get pregnant?
Chemotherapy can change your body, and can possibly affect your ovaries and your chance of becoming pregnant. The best approach is to discuss your desire to have a child in the future so that your doctor can take steps to ensure that you will be able to do so.
In addition, the timing of your possible pregnancy post-treatment is important as well.
What will follow-up care after treatment look like?
After your treatment, you should speak to your doctor regarding the next steps in your care, as well as what to expect. Your doctor will be able to provide you with a survivorship plan, which will let you know how often you should have checkups, what scans or tests you need, and when to schedule those tests.
Having this plan will make you feel more confident and proactive during a time that can be full of uncertainty.
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Can I lower my risk of cancer coming back?
Surviving cancer is a major feat. Ensuring that it doesn’t return is a valid concern that survivors may have. Although no one activity or action can guarantee that cancer will not return, there are several proactive things you can do to try to minimize your risk as much as possible.
Essentially, controlling your weight or losing weight if you are overweight is a great first step. This should be done in conjunction with eating well and exercising.
Also, not smoking and reducing your alcohol intake can have a great impact on your overall health and reduces the risk of cancer returning.
Am I at risk of recurrence or second cancer?
After treatment, your primary worry may be that the cancer can come back, or you can have a