The most prevalent gynecologic cancer is cervical cancer, and it holds promise for successful treatment and cure when identified and addressed in its early or precancerous phases. According to Dr. Karthika Reddy Byreddy, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, the prospects of pregnancy post-cervical cancer recovery hinge on the disease's stage and the chosen treatment. Fertility-sparing options are generally considered for individuals with stage IA1, IA2, or IB1 cervical cancer.
Treatments that would allow you to carry a pregnancy in the future include:
- Conization – Removal of a portion of the cervix.RBI’s option for only early-stage cervical cancers
- Simple trachelectomy – More extensive removal of the cervix.
- Radical trachelectomy – Removal of the cervix and surrounding tissues, but not the uterus.
Following conization or trachelectomy, most gynecologic oncologists recommend avoiding vaginal intercourse, not placing anything in your vagina (such as tampons), and avoiding swimming for four to six weeks.
It is advisable to wait 6 to 12 months after conization or trachelectomy before trying to get pregnant. There is an increased risk of cervical insufficiency in pregnancy following cervical cancer treatment leading to miscarriage and preterm delivery.
Regular monitoring is necessary during pregnancy which generally involves regular checking of the length and dilation of the cervix and the need for cervical cerclage if necessary.
As pregnancy is not possible after radical hysterectomy and chemoradiation, egg or embryo freezing and surrogacy may be offered to have a biologically related child.
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