The use of modern methods minimises the risk to mother and foetus. However, surgery is usually postponed until the end of the 10th week of pregnancy. During chemotherapy, it is important to remember that most cytostatics can cross the placenta. In the first trimester of pregnancy, they can cause miscarriage, fetal death or severe malformations. After organogenesis (the process of organ formation and development), the eyes, genital organs, haematopoietic system and central nervous system remain sensitive to chemotherapeutics. Treatment in the second and third trimester increases the risk of intrauterine fetal growth, but has no teratogenic effect.

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Chemotherapy should be discontinued 3 weeks before the expected date of delivery. The effect of radiotherapy on the foetus depends on the stage of pregnancy. During organogenesis, a dose of 0.1-0.2 Gy increases the risk of birth defects. Between the 8th and 25th week of pregnancy, a dose of 0.1 Gy can reduce the IQ. A dose of 1 Gy with a 40% probability will lead to mental retardation. After the 25th week, radiation is less harmful, but increases the risk of developing leukaemia and solid tumours in the first years of life.