Cervical cancer in pregnancy
Charlotte LeJeune1, Nathalia Mora-Soto2, Lone Storgaard3
1Lab of Gynecological Oncology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Seminars in Perinatology
|March 15, 2025
Summary
Managing cervical cancer during pregnancy balances treatment and fetal health. Current evidence suggests pregnancy can often be preserved without worsening cancer outcomes, but more data are needed.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Cervical cancer is a significant oncologic challenge during pregnancy.
- Management requires balancing maternal cancer treatment with fetal well-being.
- Existing data are limited, necessitating a review of current evidence and clinical experience.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current evidence on managing cervical cancer in pregnant patients.
- To explore the feasibility of preserving pregnancy alongside oncological treatment.
- To provide guidance for individualized, multidisciplinary care.
Main Methods:
- This study is a narrative review.
- It synthesizes existing literature and clinical experience.
- Focuses on oncological management and pregnancy preservation strategies.
Main Results:
- Standard oncological protocols are generally applicable.
- Emerging data indicate pregnancy can often be maintained without compromising oncological outcomes.
- Robust prognostic data from larger cohorts are still required.
Conclusions:
- Individualized treatment plans are essential, incorporating patient values.
- Referral to specialized tertiary centers is strongly recommended.
- Multidisciplinary expertise is crucial for optimal maternal and fetal outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
286
The female reproductive system can be affected by several disorders, including Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, and various forms of cancer. PMS and PMDD are cyclical conditions that cause physical and emotional distress, with symptoms that include edema, mood swings, and food cravings. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS characterized by increased symptom severity that peaks during the luteal phase and tends to improve or resolve shortly after...
286
01:27Ovarian Cycle
889
The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle...
889
01:07Teratogenicity
2.3K
The ability of a drug to produce structural deformations and functional abnormalities in the developing embryo or the fetus is called teratogenicity, and the drug producing this effect is known as a teratogen. Teratogenic effects include stillbirth, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, and neurocognitive delay. A teratogen may affect the embryo at different stages of development, which is important in determining the type and extent of the damage. During blastocyst formation, the early...
2.3K
01:18Uterus and Cervix
769
The uterus, commonly called the womb, is a vital reproductive organ in females designed to provide a nurturing environment for the implantation and growth of an embryo. It is shaped like a hollow pear and positioned between the urinary bladder and the rectum. The uterus's structure allows it to support and protect a developing fetus throughout pregnancy.
The uterus is securely anchored within the pelvic cavity by paired broad ligaments on either side. It is further stabilized by three pairs...
The uterus is securely anchored within the pelvic cavity by paired broad ligaments on either side. It is further stabilized by three pairs...
769
01:30Cancer Vaccines
319
Cancer treatment vaccines are a rapidly evolving field that offers a promising approach to immunotherapy. Unlike traditional vaccines that prevent diseases, cancer treatment vaccines are designed to treat existing cancers by stimulating the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...
319
01:24In Vitro Fertilization
178
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a form of assisted reproductive technology where an egg is fertilized with sperm in a controlled laboratory environment before transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus. This process is designed to help individuals and couples experiencing difficulties conceiving.
The IVF process begins with ovarian stimulation, during which reproductive endocrinologists prescribe hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single...
The IVF process begins with ovarian stimulation, during which reproductive endocrinologists prescribe hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single...
178