Why chemotherapy be used on a pregnant woman?

Chemotherapy is typically not the first-line treatment for pregnant women with cancer. In general, chemotherapy is avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of teratogenicity, which is the potential to cause birth defects. However, in certain cases, chemotherapy may be necessary to treat aggressive or rapidly progressing cancers that pose a significant risk to the mother's health or the viability of the pregnancy.

When the potential risks to the fetus are outweighed by the potential benefits to the mother, chemotherapy drugs may be used carefully and judiciously during the second and third trimesters. The selection of chemotherapy agents is done with consideration for their potential impact on the fetus, and the timing and dosage of treatment are adjusted to minimize the risks.

Throughout the pregnancy, close monitoring is essential, including regular prenatal care, assessment of fetal wellbeing through ultrasound and other diagnostic tests, and ongoing consultation with maternal-fetal medicine specialists, oncologists, and other relevant healthcare professionals.

It's important to note that chemotherapy is not used routinely in pregnant women and is only considered when there is a compelling medical need, balancing the risks and benefits for both the mother and the developing fetus.