Q. Can you be pregnant and have cervical cancer at the same time?

Ans: Yes, although rare, it is possible to be diagnosed with cervical cancer during pregnancy. It is usually found during routine prenatal screenings.

Q. How is cervical cancer diagnosed during pregnancy?

Ans: Diagnosis is typically made through Pap smears, colposcopy, and sometimes biopsies. These tests are safe during pregnancy and help determine the stage of cancer.

Q. Will cervical cancer affect my baby?

Ans: In most cases, cervical cancer does not directly affect the baby. However, some treatments may pose risks, and your care team will work to balance your health and the baby's safety.

Q. Can cervical cancer treatment continue during pregnancy?

Ans: Yes, but it depends on the stage of cancer and how far along the pregnancy is. Some treatments may be delayed until after delivery, while others, like certain types of chemotherapy, can be given safely during the second and third trimesters.

Q. Is it safe to delay treatment until after giving birth?

Ans: In early-stage cervical cancer, treatment may be safely delayed until after delivery. However, in more advanced stages, immediate treatment may be necessary. Decisions depend on cancer progression and gestational age.

Q. Will I need a C-section if I have cervical cancer?

Ans: Many women with cervical cancer deliver via cesarean section, especially if there is a visible tumour or advanced disease. Your doctor will decide the safest delivery method based on your case.

Q. Can cervical cancer grow faster during pregnancy?

Ans: There's no solid evidence that pregnancy speeds up cancer growth. However, hormonal and immune system changes may influence how the disease behaves, especially if HPV is present.

Q. What are the risks for the mother and baby?

Ans: Risks for the mother include preterm labour, C-section, bleeding, or blood clots. For the baby, complications may include premature birth or low birth weight, especially if early delivery or treatment is needed.

Q. What kind of emotional support is available?

Ans: Many hospitals offer counselling, palliative care, and mental health services. Support groups for women dealing with cancer during pregnancy are also available to help cope emotionally.

Q. What follow-up care is needed after childbirth?

Ans: Follow-up starts 6 - 8 weeks postpartum and includes regular Pap tests, colposcopy, and possibly HPV testing. Monitoring is crucial to ensure there's no recurrence or complications from treatment.

Cervical Cancer and Pregnancy | What to Expect & Treatment Guide

What Should I Do If I Am Diagnosed With Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy?

Finding out that you have cervical cancer during pregnancy can raise many questions and worries. Deciding whether to continue the pregnancy or consider termination, understanding the safety for both you and your baby, and determining whether to prioritise treatment or conception are all essential concerns. We will address these, but first, let us begin with what you can do if you have been recently diagnosed with cervical cancer.

Your next steps should be:

Get a team of specialistsYou can ask your healthcare provider for a multidisciplinary team that includes oncologists, gynaecologists, and pathologists. This will help in creating a curative treatment plan.

Know about your cancer stageYou should know your stage, because there are different stages of cervical cancer. Being aware of your stage will help in guiding treatment choices.

Explore your treatment optionsTreatment options for cervical cancer vary based on how far along you are in your pregnancy and the severity of the tumour. They may involve surgery, immunotherapy, or close monitoring until after the baby is born.

Including palliative carePalliative care helps manage symptoms like pain, fatigue, and emotional stress during pregnancy. It supports your comfort and overall well-being throughout treatment, helping you better cope while caring for yourself and your baby.

Taking care of your mental healthCounselling can help you navigate challenges related to emotions, as cervical cancer can affect your sexual health and fertility. If you want to explore how cervical cancer affects your fertility and if you can preserve it, read our guide on - Cervical cancer and pregnancy - What to expect, and fertility preservation options in cervical cancer.

It is essential to know that you are not alone, and there are treatment options to protect both you and your baby.

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How Can You Tell Cervical Cancer Symptoms Apart From Pregnancy Symptoms?

Some of the cervical cancer symptoms can feel a lot like regular pregnancy changes, which can make it confusing to figure out what is okay and what might need a closer look. Knowing the difference between typical pregnancy symptoms and warning signs is critical. Knowing the difference between typical pregnancy symptoms and early warning signs of cervical cancer is really important.

Symptoms to look out for:

Vaginal bleeding

Normal pregnancy - Light spotting during the early stages of pregnancy is known as implantation bleeding, which is a regular occurrence. This bleeding is temporary; however, heavy bleeding can indicate complications.

Cervical cancer - Cervical cancer during pregnancy can come with symptoms such as irregular, heavy bleeding, which is persistent and often painless.

Vaginal discharge

Normal pregnancy - Pregnancy can cause hormonal changes, which can increase vaginal discharge. Normal discharge is usually thin, milky-white, and odourless.

Cervical cancer - Discharge due to cervical cancer can be abnormal, watery, foul-smelling, or with little blood in it.

Pelvic pain

Normal pregnancy - Pregnancy can cause many changes in the body, so occasional cramping is common as the uterus grows. However, severe or persistent pain is uncommon, and you should seek medical help.

Cervical cancer - Any type of pain that is constant and spreads to the lower back or legs can indicate cervical cancer.

Urinary & bowel changes

Normal pregnancy - During pregnancy, the urge to urinate often and constipation are common due to hormonal changes and uterine pressure.

Cervical cancer - During cervical cancer, one may experience painful bowel movements or urine. This can happen due to the tumour pressing on the bladder or bowel.

Sexual health

Normal pregnancy - Even during pregnancy, experiencing pain during intercourse is uncommon and rare.

Cervical cancer - Pain or discomfort during intercourse is a typical symptom of cervical cancer.

Weakness & change in weight

Normal pregnancy - Women often experience fatigue, especially in the first trimester, with expected weight gain, which is normal.

Cervical cancer - Cervical cancer can cause unexplained fatigue and significant weight loss.

Since some cervical cancer symptoms can look like regular pregnancy changes, it is essential to notice anything that feels unusual or does not go away.

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When Is Surgical Treatment Prioritised For Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy?

Deciding the best treatment option for cervical cancer during pregnancy involves a way that safeguards the health of both mother and baby. The choice and surgery depend mainly on the stage of the tumour and how far along the pregnancy is. Early-stage cervical cancers detected in the first trimester of pregnancy can be treated surgically, while the later stages often require extra attention.

Stage-based treatment priorities are as follows:

Diagnosis before 22 - 25 weeks of pregnancy

Stage IA1 (no vascular invasion): If you are 14 - 20 weeks pregnant, your doctor may recommend a conization procedure. It involves removing a small, cone-shaped section of the cervix with cancerous growth. This procedure is generally safe for pregnant women and the fetus.

Stage IA1 (with vascular invasion): If you have been diagnosed with cervical cancer and you are 25 weeks pregnant, your doctor may recommend neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). This procedure will shrink the tumour before surgery and will help in delaying the delivery until the baby is more developed.

Stage IB2 ( tumour size > 2cm): When the tumour size is greater than 2 cm, neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is used to shrink the tumour size until the fetus matures, usually after 36 weeks. The delivery is planned by cesarean section (C-section) to avoid any complications.

Diagnosis after 22 - 25 weeks of pregnancy

Stage IA1 to IB1: Surgical procedures are typically avoided at this stage, as the enlarged uterus increases the risk of complications. Treatment is usually delayed until after delivery, although neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) may be used to accelerate fetal maturity when needed.

Stage IB2 to IVB: NACT is used during pregnancy to avoid delaying cancer treatment. It helps manage the disease while allowing the baby more time to grow safely before delivery.

Deciding when to have surgery during pregnancy is complex and must balance cancer treatment with the baby's safety.

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Is It Possible For The Baby To Be Affected If The Mother Has Cervical Cancer During Pregnancy?

Transmission of cervical cancer from a mother to her unborn child is considered very rare, but it is not impossible. While the fetus develops safely inside the womb, the chances of cancer cells spreading to the baby during this time are extremely low. However, there remains a slight possibility that the baby could come into contact with cancerous cells during childbirth, when the baby passes through the birth canal. Although such cases are uncommon, understanding the potential risks can help expectant mothers and their families better understand.

Things that might negatively affect the child:

Transmission of cancerous cells during birthDuring vaginal birth, there is a chance that the baby can come in contact with cancerous cells in the cervix. These cells can enter the baby's lung, causing pediatric lung cancer. This is why in such scenarios, cesarean surgeries are preferred.

Chemotherapy effectsChemotherapy during the second or third trimester does not harm the baby's health, but could lead to premature delivery or a baby of low weight.

While it is rare for the baby to be affected, understanding the risks helps ensure the best care.

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Can Pregnancy Speed Up The Cancer Progression?

It is natural to wonder if pregnancies can speed up cervical cancer growth. Generally, when you have cervical cancer during pregnancy, the chances are low. However, if you are someone who has had multiple full-term pregnancies, also known as multiparity, you might be more susceptible to cervical cancer. Multiple pregnancies do not cause HPV infection, but increase the risk factors. Multiple pregnancies itself is not directly the factor that influences cancer speed. The primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent high-risk HPV infections.

Multiple pregnancies can affect cervical cancer risk:

Hormonal fluctuationsPregnancy can cause hormonal fluctuations, such as increased estrogen and progesterone levels in the body. These hormones can cause cervical cells to grow and change, which can provide HPV a favourable environment, enabling it to infect and start the early cancer stages. Studies suggest that these hormones can make HPV act more strongly and aggressively, affecting how it grows.

Cervical changesThere is a part of the cervix called the "transformation zone", where the cells are more sensitive and can easily get infected by HPV. In women with multiple full-term pregnancies, this area can stay exposed for a long time, which may make it easier for the virus to infect the cervix. Also, having several vaginal births can cause minor injuries and swelling in the cervix, which can alter the structure of the cells, making them susceptible to cancer.

Changes in the body's immune responsePregnancy naturally suppresses the immune system to protect the developing fetus. This temporary immune change may make it harder for the body to clear the HPV infections, allowing the virus to persist and increasing the risk of cancer.

The cancer itself may not reach the baby, but early diagnosis and careful planning are essential for a healthy delivery.

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How To Deal With Emotional And Mental Stress During Pregnancy?

Being diagnosed with cervical cancer during pregnancy can come with a mix of strong emotions, joy, but also fear, anxiety, and grief. Many women feel overwhelmed by thinking about their health, their baby's safety and difficult treatment decisions. This can lead to stress, depression, and feelings of isolation since this situation is rare, and support groups may feel less relatable. If you are struggling with conflicting emotions, you are not alone. Sharing your feelings is one of the best ways to deal with stress. Knowing that you have someone who knows what you are going through.

Tips to ease your mental stress:

Seek supportTalk openly with your healthcare team, counsellors, or support groups who understand both pregnancy and cancer challenges.

Try new activitiesTry doing things you like or new activities to create a healthy distraction. You can try journaling or any creative expression.

Practice self-careShare your feelings with family and friends; they can provide much-needed emotional support.

Open up to your familySimple activities like mindfulness, gentle exercise, or relaxation techniques can help manage stress.

Taking time for yourself and asking for help when needed can help manage pregnancy's emotional ups and downs.

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What Are The Possible Risks And Complications For Pregnant Women With Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer during pregnancy presents unique challenges and risks, mainly affecting the mother but sometimes impacting the baby as well. Understanding these risks helps in making informed decisions and managing care effectively.

Risks for the Pregnant Woman:

Delivery complications: Women with cervical cancer are more likely to need a cesarean section (C-section), face preterm labour, or require a hysterectomy to control the tumour or manage complications during delivery.

Blood clots: Pregnancy already increases the risk of blood clots, but cervical cancer raises this risk further, making conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) more likely.

Haemorrhage: Vaginal delivery can cause sudden, heavy bleeding, especially if a tumour is present or after treatments like surgery or chemotherapy.

Increased need for blood transfusions: Due to bleeding risks and treatment effects, pregnant women with cervical cancer often require blood transfusions.

Cancer recurrence: Vaginal delivery may increase the risk of cancer coming back in the cervix or surrounding tissues.

Risks and Complications for the Baby:

Fetal distress or loss: Although less common, there is a risk of stillbirth or other fetal complications due to the mother's condition or treatment.

Preterm birth: Babies born to mothers with cervical cancer are more likely to be delivered prematurely, which can affect their health and development.

Low birth weight: Infants may be smaller than average, which can lead to additional health challenges after birth.

Cancer transmission: While extremely rare, there is a minimal chance that cancer cells could pass from mother to baby.

Awareness of the risks allows for early action and better planning throughout your pregnancy journey.

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What Follow‑Up is Needed After Childbirth If You Had Cervical Cancer?

After giving birth, if you have had cervical cancer during pregnancy, careful follow-up is essential to keep track of your health and catch any signs of the cancer coming back or any lasting effects from treatment. Pregnancy and cancer treatment can affect the cervix, so regular checkups help your doctor monitor how your body is healing and ensure any changes are addressed early. Follow-up usually starts around 6 to 8 weeks after delivery. During this time, your doctor will perform tests like Pap smears and colposcopy. A biopsy might be done to check the tissue more thoroughly if any abnormalities are found. HPV testing may also be part of this routine to help guide your care.

Types of Follow-Up Tests:

Pap Tests/Cytology - Checks for abnormal cells on the cervix.

Colposcopy - Provides a detailed view of the cervix to spot any issues.

Biopsies - Tissue samples taken if something unusual is detected.

HPV Tests - Detects high-risk HPV strains linked to cervical cancer.

What should the frequency of follow-up visits be?

First 2 Years: Every 3 to 4 months, since the risk of recurrence is highest.

Years 3 to 5: Visits become less frequent, usually every 6 to 12 months.

After 5 Years: Annual checkups are generally enough if no issues arise.

Post-birth monitoring is key to managing your health and preventing complications after cervical cancer.

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FAQs

Q. Can you be pregnant and have cervical cancer at the same time?

Ans: Yes, although rare, it is possible to be diagnosed with cervical cancer during pregnancy. It is usually found during routine prenatal screenings.
Q. How is cervical cancer diagnosed during pregnancy?

Ans: Diagnosis is typically made through Pap smears, colposcopy, and sometimes biopsies. These tests are safe during pregnancy and help determine the stage of cancer.
Q. Will cervical cancer affect my baby?

Ans: In most cases, cervical cancer does not directly affect the baby. However, some treatments may pose risks, and your care team will work to balance your health and the baby's safety.
Q. Can cervical cancer treatment continue during pregnancy?

Ans: Yes, but it depends on the stage of cancer and how far along the pregnancy is. Some treatments may be delayed until after delivery, while others, like certain types of chemotherapy, can be given safely during the second and third trimesters.
Q. Is it safe to delay treatment until after giving birth?

Ans: In early-stage cervical cancer, treatment may be safely delayed until after delivery. However, in more advanced stages, immediate treatment may be necessary. Decisions depend on cancer progression and gestational age.
Q. Will I need a C-section if I have cervical cancer?

Ans: Many women with cervical cancer deliver via cesarean section, especially if there is a visible tumour or advanced disease. Your doctor will decide the safest delivery method based on your case.
Q. Can cervical cancer grow faster during pregnancy?

Ans: There's no solid evidence that pregnancy speeds up cancer growth. However, hormonal and immune system changes may influence how the disease behaves, especially if HPV is present.
Q. What are the risks for the mother and baby?

Ans: Risks for the mother include preterm labour, C-section, bleeding, or blood clots. For the baby, complications may include premature birth or low birth weight, especially if early delivery or treatment is needed.
Q. What kind of emotional support is available?

Ans: Many hospitals offer counselling, palliative care, and mental health services. Support groups for women dealing with cancer during pregnancy are also available to help cope emotionally.
Q. What follow-up care is needed after childbirth?

Ans: Follow-up starts 6 - 8 weeks postpartum and includes regular Pap tests, colposcopy, and possibly HPV testing. Monitoring is crucial to ensure there's no recurrence or complications from treatment.

Cervical Cancer And Pregnancy - What To Expect