Reproduction is doubtlessly one of the main biological meanings of life. It is therefore not surprising that various aspects of reproduction impact on breast cancer risk. Various developmental levels may become targets of breast tumorigenesis. This review follows the chronologic sequence of events in the life of a female at risk, starting with the intrauterine development. Furthermore, the influence of both contraceptive measures and fertility treatment on breast cancer development is dealt with, as well as various pregnancy-associated factors, events, and perinatal outcomes. Finally, the contribution of breast feeding to a reduced breast cancer risk is discussed.
Keywords: Breast cancer; Breast feeding; Gestational diabetes mellitus; Hormonal carcinogenesis; Infertility treatment; Oral contraceptives; Pregnancy complications; Reproduction; Transplacental carcinogenesis; Xenoestrogens.