Gestational Trophoblastic Disease

What it is

Gestational Trophoblastic Disease (GTD) is a rare group of conditions in which abnormal cells grow inside the uterus after conception. These cancers form from the cells that would normally develop into the placenta, which connects the fetus to the uterus. Although it begins during pregnancy, GTD is not a typical pregnancy and cannot result in a viable birth.

The good news: when detected early and treated appropriately, GTD is often highly curable.

How it’s diagnosed

Diagnosis usually involves an ultrasound and bloodwork measuring hCG levels. If GTD is suspected, further testing and monitoring are used to confirm the diagnosis and determine whether the disease is benign or malignant.

Common symptoms

Symptoms can mimic those of a normal or early miscarriage. They may include:

Because these signs can overlap with other pregnancy complications, proper evaluation is essential.

Dr. Kothari’s Approach

Dr. Kothari understands the physical and emotional toll GTD can take—especially when it follows a hoped-for pregnancy. Her approach is grounded in clarity, empathy, and gentle guidance through every step of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Treatment may involve a minor surgical procedure to remove abnormal tissue, followed by careful monitoring of hCG levels. If a hysterectomy is recommended, she uses minimally invasive techniques whenever possible. In rare malignant cases, chemotherapy may be needed. Dr. Kothari stays closely involved throughout, offering not just medical care but emotional support and long-term monitoring to ensure complete recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get pregnant after a molar pregnancy?

Yes, it is possible to get pregnant after a molar pregnancy. The risk that a future pregnancy will also be a molar pregnancy is approximately 1%. If you’ve had two molar pregnancies, the risk of a third increases to 15–20%.

How long should I wait before attempting pregnancy after treatment for gestational trophoblastic disease?

It is generally recommended to wait 6 months after treatment of a molar pregnancy before attempting pregnancy, and 1 year after treatment of other types of gestational trophoblastic disease. This is because hCG levels—a hormone produced during pregnancy—are also used to monitor for recurrence of the disease. Since hCG naturally rises during pregnancy, trying to conceive too soon can make it difficult to tell whether the hormone is increasing due to a healthy pregnancy or a possible recurrence.