Risk factors for cancer after a molar pregnancy

Abnormal tissue left behind after a molar pregnancy is removed can become cancerous. The risk of developing cancer is greater for women who have had a complete mole and any of the following conditions:1

  • An extremely large ovarian cyst
  • Many large ovarian cysts
  • High levels of the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
  • Age over 40 years

Author: Kathe Gallagher, MSW Last Updated: October 29, 2007
Medical Review: Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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