An experimental surgery is helping cancer survivors give birth

February 6, 2026

a mobile with baby toys

(MIT Technology Review) – At least eight babies have been born to patients who underwent the procedure.

This week I want to tell you about an experimental surgical procedure that’s helping people have babies. Specifically, it’s helping people who have had treatment for bowel or rectal cancer.

Radiation and chemo can have pretty damaging side effects that mess up the uterus and ovaries. Surgeons are pioneering a potential solution: simply stitch those organs out of the way during cancer treatment. Once the treatment has finished, they can put the uterus—along with the ovaries and fallopian tubes—back into place. (Read More)