Pregnancy-Related Cervical Cancer Diagnosis
Cervical cancer, a type of cancer that affects the uterus, is a relatively rare occurrence during pregnancy. According to various sources, the incidence ranges from about 1.5 to 12 cases per 100,000 pregnancies, or approximately 1.2 to 10 cases per 10,000 pregnancies [1][3]. It is considered one of the more common gynecological cancers diagnosed during pregnancy, but remains a rare event overall.
The main cause of cervical cancer, including in pregnancy, is persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Other contributing risk factors include a weakened immune system, smoking tobacco, multiple sexual partners, other sexually transmitted infections, multiple full-term pregnancies, long-term use of birth control pills, and a family history of cervical cancer [2][4].
In the early stages of pregnancy, treatment typically involves routine Pap tests, biopsy, and surgery to remove the tumour and surrounding healthy tissue in the cervix. For small tumours, a cone biopsy is a preferred method for diagnosis and treatment [5].
However, treatment after diagnosis depends on the severity and extent of cervical dysplasia. Options can include continued monitoring, cryosurgery, electro-cauterization, and laser surgery. For larger tumours, chemotherapy may be recommended, with the option of early delivery or waiting until the second or third trimester to start treatment [6].
It is recommended to ask for a second healthcare provider's opinion when considering attending an examination for the diagnosis of cervical cancer during pregnancy. This is because treatment methods differ according to individual medical profiles [1]. Sit with your doctor and ask about the treatment options available to you if you are diagnosed with cervical cancer during pregnancy.
Cervical cancer during pregnancy can be diagnosed through a pap smear test and other methods like punch biopsy, endocervical curettage, electrical wire loop, cone biopsy, HPV DNA infection test, and imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and PET [7].
Prevention methods for cervical cancer include routine Pap testing or HPV DNA testing, using condoms during sexual intercourse, avoiding early sexual contact or multiple partners, eliminating smoking/drug abuse, avoiding skin-to-skin contact with someone who already has an HPV infection, and routine HPV vaccination starting between ages 9 to 12 [8]. Routine vaccination is also recommended for those who have sex with multiple partners even beyond the age of 21 and above to prevent pre-cancerous stages from developing.
Symptoms of cervical cancer can include pain during sexual intercourse, pain in the lower belly and pelvis, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and abnormal vaginal discharge [6]. If cervical cancer has progressed to the most advanced stages of pregnancy, your doctor may advise you to abort the pregnancy.
Chemotherapy treatment for cervical cancer 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 can be harmful to the fetus, but it does not affect the baby during the second trimester due to the placenta acting as a barrier [9]. During the later stages of pregnancy, chemotherapy may indirectly harm the unborn baby by causing side effects in the mother.
In summary, cervical cancer in pregnancy is uncommon but important. Its causes align with known cervical cancer risk factors, chiefly persistent HPV infection compounded by immune status, lifestyle, and reproductive history [1][2][3][4]. Early screening and diagnosis remain critical to manage this complex clinical scenario. If diagnosed, it is crucial to consult with multiple healthcare providers to understand the available treatment options and make informed decisions.
Read also:
- Is it advisable to utilize your personal health insurance in a publicly-funded medical facility?
- Dietary strategies for IBS elimination: Aims and execution methods
- Benefits, suitable dosage, and safety considerations for utilizing pumpkin seed oil in treating an overactive bladder
- Harmful Medical Remedies: A Misguided Approach to Healing
