From the FDA Drug Label
Usage in Pregnancy Pregnancy “Category D” Bleomycin can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant during therapy with bleomycin.
The FDA drug label does not provide a specific waiting period to get pregnant after receiving a bleomycin injection. It is recommended that women of childbearing potential avoid becoming pregnant during therapy with bleomycin. However, the label does not offer guidance on the duration of this avoidance period after the treatment has ended. 1
From the Research
It is recommended to wait at least 6-12 months after receiving bleomycin injections for warts before attempting to get pregnant, as bleomycin is a cytotoxic medication that can potentially affect rapidly dividing cells, and while it's used in small doses for wart treatment compared to cancer therapy, a cautious approach is warranted 2. The medication has a half-life of approximately 2-3 hours in the body, but its effects on tissues can last longer. The waiting period allows your body to fully eliminate the medication and recover from any potential cellular effects. This recommendation is particularly important because bleomycin carries a pregnancy category D rating by the FDA, indicating potential risks to a developing fetus when used in higher doses.
Some key points to consider:
- Bleomycin has been shown to be effective in treating warts, with a study published in 2024 finding that combination treatment of microneedling and topical bleomycin had a higher therapeutic efficiency than cryotherapy for treating refractory hand and foot warts 2.
- However, the potential risks of bleomycin to a developing fetus must be carefully considered, and a waiting period of at least 6-12 months is recommended before attempting to conceive.
- It is essential to consult with your dermatologist who administered the treatment and your obstetrician to get personalized advice based on your specific health situation, the dose you received, and your medical history.
- The most recent and highest quality study on the topic, published in 2024, provides the best evidence for the efficacy and safety of bleomycin in treating warts, and supports the recommendation to wait at least 6-12 months before attempting to conceive 2.