Hi all,
My oncolgoist recommended waiting at least 2 years after treatment to become pregnant again. (I first got cancer when I was 8 months pregnant with my son last year). Well, turns out radiation changed my body so much my birth control failed and I'm pregnant again. Has anyone had any experience with this? We're totally thrilled but totally nervous since I may be rolling out the red carpet for the cancer to return...I may be on an island with this one but thought I'd check.
Just curious, were your oral cancer slides ever tested for HPV?
Hi Belinda
firstly congratulations.Secondly i doubt whether there are many of us old crocks who have much experience of your dilemma lol.
I am not sure whether oral cancer reacts with pregnancy hormones in the same way other cancers do,so the possibility of recurrence is a bit of a grey area for me,but i am sure brian will have that information.What would worry me i think is the drain on your body of a pregnancy particularly if you lost a lot of weight during your tx or had nutrition issues.You need to get some good advice from your doctors and a an obstetrics specialist. good luck.
Belinda congrats on the baby!
I agree with Liz and say ask the drs about this. You seem like you are only a couple months ahead of me and I dont even want to know how I would manage a pregnancy at this stage. Even though I'm done with having kids, I still got an IUD placed in fear of that situation. In the same breath, any pregnancy/child is a blessing and wish you the best. Maybe someone will be able to give you some insight/advice on this one!
Hi Belinda. Well congratulations!!! I'm so happy for you. I'm not sure but I don't think oral cancer is connected to hormonal changes like breast cancer and ovarian/uterian cancers are. I plan to start a family at the end of summer (hopefully i won't have trouble). This weighed heavily on my mind too.
I know that when pregnant you can't have the MRI's or Pet scans so just make sure you are going in for physical exams and scopes more often so that they can keep a close watch on you during your pregnancy. Then check with your Drs. on what they reccommend regarding MRI's after you deliver.
Take care of yourself and get lots of rest...You've been through a rough time and enjoy being pregnant too!
I'm sure everything will be fine.
K
Congrats on the baby and next time take an aspirin. Just hold it tight between your knees .. LOL
Thanks everyone. I do think oral cancer is different than other cancers in terms of the hormonal changes. The issue is the immunosuppression that occurs during pregnancy not allowing my body to fight anything that could come up. I did not have my slides tested for HPV...an insurance thing. I wish I would have now. I will definately get all my exams and scopes. Thanks!
Hi, Congrats on the up-comming baby!!! Semper-Fi Bob