There are thought to be hundreds of women each year diagnosed with cancer while they are pregnant who face an agonizing decision over the best course of action.
In some cases women opt for an abortion, particularly when they are in the early stages of pregnancy and if the cancer is very aggressive.
Others risk their own survival by refusing treatment until after the baby is born.
A collection of research studies published in a special edition of The Lancet medical journal has offered reassurance for women as it was found that chemotherapy treatment after the first trimester does not harm the unborn child.
Researchers in Belgium followed up 70 children whose mothers were treated with chemotherapy while they were in the womb.
They were found to have normal development, IQ, hearing, heart function and general health. Those who were born prematurely had lower IQ scores, which is thought to be connected to the early birth rather than the drugs as this is seen in babies not exposed to chemotherapy, the researchers said.
The findings suggest early delivery so the mother can begin chemotherapy may affect the baby's health, the researchers said.
Source:
Pregnant women can be treated for cancer 'without harming baby'
In some cases women opt for an abortion, particularly when they are in the early stages of pregnancy and if the cancer is very aggressive.
Others risk their own survival by refusing treatment until after the baby is born.
A collection of research studies published in a special edition of The Lancet medical journal has offered reassurance for women as it was found that chemotherapy treatment after the first trimester does not harm the unborn child.
Researchers in Belgium followed up 70 children whose mothers were treated with chemotherapy while they were in the womb.
They were found to have normal development, IQ, hearing, heart function and general health. Those who were born prematurely had lower IQ scores, which is thought to be connected to the early birth rather than the drugs as this is seen in babies not exposed to chemotherapy, the researchers said.
The findings suggest early delivery so the mother can begin chemotherapy may affect the baby's health, the researchers said.
Source:
Pregnant women can be treated for cancer 'without harming baby'
