Leukaemia treatment journey overview in pregnancy
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Leukaemia is a cancer of the blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow. When you are pregnant, having leukaemia means you and your medical team need to plan treatment carefully to protect both you and your baby.
Key facts
- Leukaemia during pregnancy is rare but can be treated.
- Treatment may include medicines, but they are chosen with pregnancy in mind.
- Your care will involve a team of specialists working together.
No, leukaemia during pregnancy is rare, affecting about 1 in 1,000 pregnancies.
It can affect women of any age during pregnancy, but the most common types are acute leukaemias, which need prompt treatment.
Symptoms
- Severe shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Fainting or seizure
- Sudden severe headache or confusion
- Heavy bleeding from any part of the body
- ⚠Fever that does not go away, especially with weakness or sweating
- ⚠A feeling of being very unwell, with chills or shaking
- ⚠Severe vomiting or inability to eat or drink
Common symptoms
- Feeling very tired or weak
- Infections that do not go away
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Pale skin
- Fever with no clear cause
Causes
Main causes
- The exact cause is often not known. Leukaemia starts when DNA errors in blood cells cause them to grow uncontrollably.
Risk factors
- Previous treatment with certain cancer therapies
- Exposure to high levels of radiation
- Certain inherited conditions
- Smoking
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Severe headache, vomiting, or confusion
- Chest pain or trouble breathing
- Fever with weakness, which could be a sign of infection
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have persistent tiredness, frequent infections, or unusual bruising
- If you are pregnant and feel something is wrong
- If you have a history of blood conditions
Diagnosis
Doctors usually start with blood tests. If the results suggest leukaemia, you may need a bone marrow biopsy.
Tests that may be done
- Full blood count (FBC) to check red cells, white cells, and platelets
- Blood film to look at the cells under a microscope
- Bone marrow biopsy to confirm the diagnosis
- Imaging scans if needed
What to expect at your appointment
If you are diagnosed with leukaemia while pregnant, your medical team will explain each step. They will also involve specialist doctors who care for pregnant women.
Treatment
Treatment for leukaemia during pregnancy is complex. The main goal is to treat your cancer while keeping your baby as safe as possible. Your doctors will discuss the best timing for treatment, which depends on the type of leukaemia, how far advanced it is, and how many weeks pregnant you are.
Self-care at home
- Avoid people with infections
- Wash hands often
- Eat a balanced diet as well as you can
- Rest when your body needs it
Medical treatments
Treatment may include anti-cancer medicines (chemotherapy). Some medicines are safer in the second and third trimesters than in the first. In some cases, if the leukaemia is very aggressive, the team might recommend starting treatment immediately and, if you are close to the end of pregnancy, delivering the baby early so treatment can be given safely. There is no one-size-fits-all plan.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is not a standard treatment for leukaemia. The main treatments are medicines and supportive care.
Living with this condition
Living with leukaemia during pregnancy is emotionally and physically demanding. You will have frequent hospital visits and may need to adjust your work and home life.
Lifestyle tips
- Prioritise rest
- Accept help from family and friends
- Keep a journal to track how you feel
- Talk to your partner or a trusted friend
Diet and exercise
Follow any diet advice from your team. Gentle activity, like walking, may help if you feel well enough, but always ask your doctor first.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
A cancer diagnosis in pregnancy can cause anxiety, fear, and depression. Remember that it is normal to feel this way, and your doctors can connect you with counselling or support groups.
Prevention
Most cases of leukaemia cannot be prevented, as the cause is usually unknown.
Vaccines
You should avoid live vaccines during pregnancy, but speak with your doctor about which vaccines are safe (such as flu and whooping cough).
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening test for leukaemia. Blood tests are only done if you have symptoms.
Complications
If left untreated
- Infection and severe bleeding
- Anaemia (low red blood cells) causing extreme tiredness and shortness of breath
- The cancer spreading to other organs
Long-term outlook
With timely care, many women with leukaemia during pregnancy can be treated successfully while protecting their baby. The outlook depends on the type and stage of the leukaemia, but modern treatments give real hope. Your team will do everything they can to see you and your baby through this.
Find support
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.