What does it mean if CA125 is elevated during pregnancy, and what should be done?

Jun 05, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Qi Zhirong
Introduction
Elevated carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA-125) levels during pregnancy may be associated with hormonal changes, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and other factors. Treatment options include daily care and oral medications. In early pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations may cause growth and enlargement of reproductive organs such as the ovaries and uterus, leading to elevated CA-125 levels.

Elevated carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA-125) levels in pregnant women may be related to hormonal changes, pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and other factors. Management may include daily care and oral medications. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes

In early pregnancy, changes in hormone levels may cause growth and enlargement of reproductive organs such as the ovaries and uterus, leading to elevated CA-125 levels. This is usually a normal physiological phenomenon and does not require special treatment. Pregnant women should maintain a balanced diet and consume more fresh vegetables and fruits.

2. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease may lead to oophoritis (inflammation of the ovaries). Since ovarian cells secrete CA-125, oophoritis may result in elevated CA-125 levels. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as increased vaginal discharge and lower abdominal pain. Pregnant women can take medications such as amoxicillin capsules or doxycycline hydrochloride tablets under medical supervision.

3. Endometriosis

Endometrial ectopic cells in endometriosis may undergo pathological changes such as hyperplasia, cystic transformation, and hemorrhage. These changes may stimulate cells to produce excessive CA-125, resulting in elevated levels. Symptoms may include dysmenorrhea, menstrual irregularities, and abdominal pain. Pregnant women can take medications such as norethisterone tablets or dydrogesterone tablets under medical guidance.

Besides the above relatively common causes, elevated CA-125 may also be associated with cervical adenocarcinoma, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and other conditions. It is important to seek timely medical evaluation and follow the doctor's recommendations for further examination and treatment.

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