Ms. V.H.M (34 years old, living in Thong Tay Hoi ward, Ho Chi Minh City) once looked forward to her happiness when she had a second child. But at the 26th and 27th weeks of pregnancy, she suddenly faced a big shock when she was diagnosed with colon cancer.
Previously, on July 12, Ms. M. was hospitalized for phagoculture. The biological results determined that she had colon cancer. Faced with the reality of difficulties, gastroenterologists consulted with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Department of Neonatal Medicine to develop the optimal plan. The proposed regimen is to monitor the fetus until week 32 - 34 if the mother shows no signs of bloating, in case of complications, emergency surgery is required to save the mother.
During her hospitalization, the pregnant woman was closely monitored for the risk of intestinal obstruction, bleeding and exhaustion. Doctors also use corticoids to help the fetus mature the lungs, magnesium sulfate to protect the brain of the fetus before surgery. Finally, at 32 weeks of pregnancy, the surgery lasted nearly 2 hours and went smoothly.
A week after surgery, Ms. M. recovered well, was discharged from the hospital and continued to follow the cancer treatment regimen. The premature baby boy is currently receiving special care in the Department of Neonatal Medicine, has breathed on his own, practiced breastfeeding and is preparing to be discharged from the hospital to return to his mother.
Sharing in emotion, Ms. M. said: "The moment I heard my child's first cry, I felt empowered. I know that I have a small child who needs his mother, so I will try my best to fight the disease. I am truly grateful to the doctors who saved both mother and child. Now, I will be stronger to live, to raise my children to be stronger".
Dr. CKII Hua Thi Chi, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gia Dinh People's Hospital, who directly monitors and treats, commented: "Obelgia in pregnant women is a rare disease, with a rate of about 1/13,000 - 1/50,000 pregnancy cases. Symptoms are easily confused with physiological changes in pregnancy, leading to often delayed diagnosis. Ms. M.'s illness is a huge challenge because it must ensure the safety of both mother and fetus and give the baby a chance to live. The success of the surgery was thanks to the close and smooth coordination between many specialties in the hospital. In particular, the determination of the mother, the consensus and support of the family are also key factors that help us make timely and successful treatment decisions".
Doctor Chi also recommends: Pregnant women who have unusual digestive symptoms such as bloody mucus and stools, diarrhea, prolonged constipation, smelly abdominal pain, anemia, weight loss, etc. should go to a medical facility for early examination and consultation with many specialties. Timely diagnosis and treatment not only saves the mother but also brings life opportunities to the fetus".
