Posted in: Cancer by Dr. Tarang Krishna Posted Date: 25 Sep, 2019
A cancer diagnosis in a pregnant woman is not a common occurrence. With the chances being extremely rare, cancer is also extremely difficult to detect in pregnant women. They experience changes in the body such as bloating, vomiting, headache, breast changes and many more as the fetus grows. Though these signs are considered as normal, these could also be signs and symptoms of cancer.
According to leading cancer specialists in India, pregnancy does not cause cancer and in many cases, it won’t affect the growth of cancer in the body. Sometimes, however, hormone changes can stimulate specific cancers such as melanoma but this is uncommon. Here are a few things you need to know about cancer during pregnancy:
1) Common cancers during pregnancy
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer which is diagnosed during pregnancy. The breasts enlarge and change texture during pregnancy so changes might be difficult to diagnose. This means pregnant women with breast cancer may be diagnosed later than women who are not pregnant. Some other cancers which have a probability of occurring during pregnancy are cervix cancer, thyroid cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, and more.
2) Common signs of cancer and pregnancy
Many times, cancer symptoms may overlap with pregnancy symptoms. Some symptoms common to both the conditions are headache, bloating, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, breast changes and rectal bleeding.
3) Is any research being done in cancer during pregnancies
Cancer treatment in India is continuously evolving. Immunotherapy is a promising treatment method for cancer during pregnancy. However, as new treatment becomes available, researchers are continuously working to determine which treatments are safe and which are not. Cancer researchers are currently studying the effects of the new drugs, how they affect and move in the body and the concentration of milk. Though the instances are rare, there are several studies looking into children who are exposed to cancer treatments in the uterus.
4) Affect of cancer on the baby
Cancer usually doesn’t affect the unborn baby but therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy might pose a serious risk. However, once the baby is born the mother can continue with the treatment but should not breastfeed as the drugs can transfer via milk. Work closely with your oncologist and find the best treatment options for your and your baby's health and the health of your baby.
5) Treatment options
Earlier, doctors weren’t sure how to treat cancer during pregnancy but with modern times more women are getting treated successfully. However, it is important to discuss the pros and cons of receiving cancer treatment during pregnancy. The treatment options vary with the type of cancer, stage, where the cancer is located, which month of pregnancy are you in, and many more. It is recommended to consult a physician as every situation is different.
So if you are looking for cervix, thyroid or ovarian cancer treatment in India, Cancer Healer Center is a great option. The center uses cancer healer therapy based on immunology cancer treatment adhering to international medical standards and treating patients with no side effects. Talk to us about the best way to treat your cancer during pregnancy. We have helped many women to recover from cancer and have healthy babies.