Is radiotherapy safe in pregnancy?

Radiotherapy uses ionising radiation, which can affect developing fetal tissue. The possible risk depends on where the radiation is aimed, how far that area is from the uterus, the treatment technique and the stage of pregnancy. Treatment near the abdomen or pelvis raises different concerns from treatment to a distant body area.

A cancer diagnosis during pregnancy does not create one standard plan. The team may discuss timing, surgery, medicines, a different radiation approach or treatment after delivery. They balance cancer control with pregnancy considerations and explain uncertainty in plain language.

Tell the oncology team immediately if you are pregnant, may be pregnant or are trying to conceive. Do not attend planning or treatment without sharing this information. Ask for coordinated advice from your oncologist, radiation specialist and maternity team.

Bring details of the first day of your last menstrual period, pregnancy scans, medicines and prior treatments. Ask how the plan would affect the fetus, whether shielding or treatment changes are useful, and what monitoring would be needed. Do not stop prescribed medicines without medical advice.

Contact your oncology or maternity team promptly for vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, severe abdominal pain, contractions, fever, reduced fetal movement later in pregnancy or sudden worsening illness. Seek emergency help for heavy bleeding, severe pain, fainting or breathing difficulty.

Where would radiation be delivered, and what fetal exposure is expected? What alternatives or timing options exist? Which specialists will coordinate care? How will pregnancy and cancer treatment be monitored? Which symptoms require immediate assessment?