Cervical cancer during pregnancy

Pregnancy does not remove the need to assess or treat cancer, but it changes which investigations and treatment timings may be appropriate. A gynaecological cancer specialist and obstetric team should plan care together.

The team considers the cancer type, tumour size, whether it has spread, the stage of pregnancy, the patient's health and wishes, and the effect of delay or treatment on both patient and fetus. The plan is individual; another person's experience may not apply to the same diagnosis at a different point in pregnancy.

Pelvic examination, colposcopy and carefully selected biopsy procedures can establish the diagnosis. Imaging choices are tailored to the clinical question and pregnancy. The obstetric team advises on fetal assessment, while cancer specialists explain which treatments can be considered now, delayed until later or planned after delivery.

Ask for prompt review by a multidisciplinary team experienced in gynaecological cancer during pregnancy. Bring pathology and scan reports, a complete medicines list, the estimated stage of pregnancy and details of bleeding or pain. Do not stop prescribed medicines or postpone a recommended diagnostic visit without speaking to the responsible team.

Request a clear explanation of the treatment goal, available options, timing, effects on fertility and pregnancy, and any decisions needed before treatment begins. Psychological support, fertility counselling, symptom control and practical help can be included alongside cancer and antenatal care.

Contact the maternity or cancer team promptly for new vaginal bleeding, persistent watery or blood-stained discharge, worsening pelvic pain, fever or reduced fetal movement once movement is normally felt. Cervical cancer can present with bleeding or discharge, though these symptoms can have other causes in pregnancy.

Call emergency services for heavy bleeding, fainting, severe breathlessness, chest pain, collapse or intense abdominal pain. Use the urgent contact instructions provided by the maternity unit rather than waiting for a routine cancer appointment.

Ask what is known about the cancer's extent, which tests remain necessary, who coordinates decisions and how the pregnancy will be monitored. Clarify how each option may affect cancer control, delivery planning, the fetus and future fertility, and ask whom to call day or night if bleeding or pain changes.