Breast cancer
posted by NiamhB
31 July 2018

Pregnant with breast cancer

Last reply: 10 September 2018 21:23

Hi hi. I'm new to this and I'm looking for some advice. I've had a read through lots of threads but I'm realizing that my situation isn't all that common.

I am thirteen weeks pregnant and have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. I have been receiving amazing medical care and things could not have happened quicker on the breast cancer side of things.

My question is about the pregnancy side of things!! I was planning on going public in the rotunda hospital for my pregnancy and birth. However since the breast cancer diagnosis I've been categorized as high risk and will be attending Holles street instead. I'm trying to figure out if I need to go private or if I'll get the care myself and my baby need in the public system. I've heard nothing but amazing things about the public maternity care in Ireland which is why I was so happy to go that route from the beginning. I'll be having chemo throughout my pregnancy and I'll be monitored really closely in Holles street.

In a nut shell I'm trying to find out if given that I'm pregnant with breast cancer should I:

A: go private or public in Holles street
And
B: if I go private how much will it cost?

Many thanks in advance!

Niamh

4 comments

Comments

commented by Irish Cancer Society
02 August 2018

02 August 2018 12:13

Hi Niamh,

Many thanks for your online inquiry, I am sorry to hear of your recent breast cancer diagnosis the added worry of carrying a baby I’m sure is creating a lot of anxiety. It is positive to hear your experience so far has been good.

It is your decision to go private if you wish. High risk pregnant patients tend to be seen on a more regular basis and a lot of the consultations will be with the senior registrar or consultant weather you are public or private.

The cost for private maternity care differs depending on your private health insurance cover.

I am attaching a link here to a UK website for patients that are pregnant while on treatment for cancer. I think you may find the information helpful.

Your Gp may be better informed to answer these questions. I hope all goes well with your treatment

Kindest Reagrds,

Cancer Nurseline

commented by NiamhB
07 August 2018

07 August 2018 12:20

Hi there,

Thanks for the reply. Unfortunately i don't think the link to the UK site is attached. It'll be great to see some info.

Cheers,

Niamh

commented by Irish Cancer Society
07 August 2018

07 August 2018 16:10

Hi Niamh,

Sincere apologies. Here is the link https://www.macmillan.org.uk/information-and-support/audience/cancer-and-pregnancy. I hope you find it helpful. Please do not hesitate to call the Nurseline on 1800 200 700, if you would like to discuss further.

Regards,

Cancer Nurse.

 

commented by Bigbird
10 September 2018

10 September 2018 21:23

Hi Niamh, so sorry to hear about your diagnosis during pregnancy.
I too was diagnosed when pregnant, only last year. I was 19weeks at the time but had already chosen to go private before I was diagnosed as it was an IVF baby and I was so nervous.
To be honest i think you will receive the same care if not better by staying public in holles st, they are fantastic there and you will be priority due to the treatment. Do you mind me asking what type of breast cancer? And what your treatment plan is?
I had two surgeries while pregnant, then chemo only started after my son was born flowed by radiotherapy, herceptin & now Tamoxifen. Long road but you will get there. Please feel free to contact me with any queries at all you may have, take care x

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