Zwangerschap na seksualiteit preserverende cystectomie wegens blaaskanker

Two women aged 33 and 28 years, respectively, were treated by sexuality-preserving cystectomy for urothelial cell carcinoma of the bladder, i.e. cystectomy with preservation of the uterus and appendages. Both became pregnant following this surgical intervention and had a healthy child following an uncomplicated vaginal delivery. There is a high risk for complications in such pregnancies and supervision should be carried out by both a gynaecologist and an urologist. The most important complications are repeated urinary tract infections, hydronephrosis, incontinence and pressure on the reconstruction from the growing uterus leading to smaller capacity and problems with self-catheterisation. From an oncological point of view it is wise to advise patients to postpone pregnancy until at least two years after surgery.

Conflict of interest: Professor Horenblas’ institute received remuneration for his attendance as an expert witness in court cases, and subsidies for his research projects; they also received funds from the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) for lectures. Financial support: none declared.