Effects of cancer on the fetus
Experts don’t know all the ways that cancer can affect an unborn baby. Though it is possible for some cancers to spread from the mother to the placenta, most cancers rarely have a direct effect on the fetus.
If it does happen, your doctor will discuss how to treat the baby during pregnancy and once you deliver. Your doctor will check for early signs of cancer in your baby once you deliver. If your baby is cancer free there won’t be a need for additional treatment.
Some cancer treatments can harm an unborn baby. This is more likely to occur during the first trimester of pregnancy since the baby’s organs are still developing.