Q: Can an asymptomatic leukaemia patient conceive without any problems?

A:It depends on the type of leukaemia the patient has - acute or chronic and whether the leukaemia has arisen during pregnancy. Acute leukaemia is associated with growth retardation of the baby and other complications like spontaneous abortion, stillbirth or pre-term delivery. Then the issue of chemotherapy and its effect on the developing baby (especially during the first trimester) has to be considered as certain drugs like methotrexate should be avoided. Chronic myeloid leukaemia is managed conservatively during pregnancy.

If you are planning pregnancy, please discuss with both the haematologist and obstetrician who will be managing you, as they would be best placed to advise.