Can a baby be born normal after exposure to Methotrexate?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am in my last trimester of pregnancy. My husband is currently undergoing chemotherapy for bone cancer. He was admitted to a hospital for a four-hour drip of Methotrexate. The hospital staff asked me to wear gloves before touching his body fluids or anything he has touched before that, as it could potentially have Methotrexate on it, which may harm the baby. Should I be concerned about it?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query and understood your concern.

Methotrexate is an anticancerous and immunosuppressive medicine. It is usually used in ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, cancer, arthritis, etc. If a female has been using Methotrexate, it is advisable to conceive after consuming folic acid for a minimum period of three months regularly. If a mother has exposure in the first trimester, it can cause a lot of anomalies in the baby. Even miscarriage can happen as it is an anticancerous agent and is contraindicated in pregnancy, especially at conception.

I suggest you follow the instructions mentioned below,

1. Methotrexate passes transplacentally. The transplacental shift in the second and third trimesters could affect the fetus's liver with coagulation disorders, lung, pneumonitis, and skin problems. It may even cause stillbirth, preterm delivery, etc.

2. It is better to follow strict precautions. I suggest you strictly monitor the baby's movements, electronic monitoring if fewer movements are felt, get an ultrasound weekly, and see your obstetrician frequently.

I hope this has helped you.

Thanks and regards.