Pregnancy-Related Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the uterus and, while uncommon, can occur during pregnancy. According to recent statistics, it affects about 1-3% of pregnant or postpartum women.

The causes of cervical cancer in pregnancy can be attributed to several factors, including having multiple sexual partners, early sexual activity, a weak immune system, HIV or AIDs, self-destructive behaviors, several pregnancies, STDs like Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, early pregnancy before age 17, smoking, taking birth control pills, HPV infections, and 100 types of HPV infections, 13 of which are known to contribute to the development of cervical cancer.

One of the pre-cancerous stages of cervical cancer is cervical dysplasia, which occurs when abnormal cell growth happens in the outer lining of the cervix and is heavily associated with the sexually transmitted Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

Prevention methods to reduce the risk of cervical cancer include regular cervical cancer screening starting from age 35 with Pap smears or HPV tests every five years, continuing even beyond age 65 if risk factors exist or previous tests were abnormal. It is also recommended that every woman should undergo routine Pap testing or HPV DNA Testing to diagnose signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. Routine vaccination is even recommended for those who have sex with multiple partners even beyond the age of 21 and above to prevent pre-cancerous stages from developing.

When it comes to diagnosing cervical cancer during pregnancy, a pap smear test, punch biopsy, endocervical curettage, electrical wire loop, cone biopsy, HPV DNA Infection test, and imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET are used.

Treatment of cervical cancer in early stages of pregnancy usually involves routine Pap tests followed by a biopsy, and surgery may be done to remove the tumour and surrounding healthy tissue in the cervix. For small tumours, a cone biopsy is a preferred method in which a conical section of tissue is removed from the cervix for examination and diagnosis.

However, chemotherapy during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, low blood cell count during delivery, and increased risk of cervical infections. Chemotherapy during the first trimester of pregnancy is harmful to the fetus, while chemotherapy during the second and third trimesters may indirectly harm the unborn baby by causing side effects in the mother.

For large tumours, your doctor will recommend chemotherapy, and you will either be advised to opt for early delivery or wait until the second or third trimester to start with this treatment. In some cases, palliative care can provide relief from pain and other symptoms of serious illnesses during treatment.

It is important to note that there are no methods known for completely treating cervical cancer in pregnant mothers. Treatment methods will vary based on the stage and extent of cancer, and the overall health of the patient. If cervical cancer is in its earliest stages during pregnancy, your doctor may postpone treatment after a healthy delivery, and you may be subject to a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) based on how far cancer has progressed after your pregnancy.

It is advisable to seek a second healthcare provider's opinion when considering attending an examination for the diagnosis of cervical cancer. Alternative treatment options for chemotherapy treatment include chemotherapy combined with radiation therapy, herbs and certain vitamins, changing your diet, acupuncture and massage, and clinical trials.

In conclusion, understanding the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of cervical cancer is crucial for women, especially those who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Regular screenings, vaccinations, and a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer. If you have any concerns or symptoms, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.