How is radiotherapy different in pregnancy?

Radiotherapy delivers focused ionising radiation to a treatment area. The possible effect on a pregnancy depends on the body region, dose, shielding, pregnancy stage and distance from the uterus. A cancer team and maternity specialists weigh the need to control the cancer against fetal exposure. They may consider surgery, medicine, a different radiation approach or treatment after delivery, depending on the diagnosis and timing.

Tell every oncology and imaging professional that you are pregnant or could be pregnant before planning begins. Ask which scans, medicines and procedures are suitable, and make sure your maternity team is included in decisions. Do not stop cancer treatment or postpone appointments on your own. Bring the date of your last menstrual period and any pregnancy records so the teams can coordinate safely.

Contact your oncology or maternity team urgently for vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fluid leakage, reduced fetal movement after you have begun feeling movement, or a sudden new cancer symptom. Seek emergency help for collapse, severe breathlessness or uncontrolled pain. These symptoms need prompt assessment and are separate from deciding whether radiotherapy is suitable.

Ask how pregnancy stage and treatment location affect the plan, whether another treatment can safely control the cancer for now, what shielding can and cannot do, and how your baby will be monitored. Ask who will coordinate oncology and maternity appointments.