Bone marrow transplants and pregnancy is a wonderful and exciting time for most women, but for those who have undergone a bone marrow transplant, it can be a stressful and complicated experience. Bone marrow transplants, also known as hematopoietic stem cell transplants, are used to treat a variety of diseases, including leukemia, lymphoma, and some inherited immune system disorders. However, the procedure can have significant long-term effects on the body, particularly on the reproductive system.
If you are a woman who has undergone a bone marrow transplant and are considering pregnancy, there are several important things you need to know. Here is some advice to help you navigate this complex issue.
Wait at least one year after your transplant
The first piece of advice is to wait at least one year after your transplant before trying to conceive. This is because the first year after a bone marrow transplant is critical for monitoring and managing potential complications. During this time, your immune system is suppressed, making you more susceptible to infections. You will also be undergoing regular check-ups to monitor for any signs of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), a condition in which the transplanted cells attack the body’s own tissues.
In addition, the medications used to suppress your immune system can cause birth defects and other problems for a developing fetus. It is essential to wait until you are off these medications before attempting to get pregnant.
There are two types of bone marrow transplants:
autologous and allogeneic. In an autologous transplant, a person’s own bone marrow is collected and then infused back into their body after they have received high-dose chemotherapy or radiation therapy. In an allogeneic transplant, the bone marrow comes from a donor, who is usually a sibling or someone else with a closely matched tissue type.
Talk to your doctor
Your doctor will want to monitor you closely throughout your pregnancy, particularly if you are taking any medications to prevent GVHD or to suppress your immune system. They may also want to perform additional tests to monitor your baby’s health, such as regular ultrasounds.
