About Cancer

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD)

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) is the name for abnormal cells or tumours that start in the womb. They grow from cells that would normally develop into the placenta.

GTD is extremely rare but can happen during or after pregnancy. Most are non cancerous (benign) but some are cancerous. They are different to cancer.

What is gestational trophoblastic disease?

Gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) includes molar pregnancy, invasive mole and choriocarcinoma. GTD also includes the very rare placental site trophoblastic tumour and epithelioid trophoblastic tumour.

Molar pregnancy

In a molar pregnancy the fertilisation of the egg by the sperm goes wrong and creates abnormal cells or clusters of water filled sacs inside the womb. Molar pregnancies are not cancer (they are benign).

Invasive mole and choriocarcinoma

Invasive mole and choriocarcinoma are very rare types of cancer that can occur after pregnancy. They are types of gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD).

Placental site trophoblastic tumour and epithelioid trophoblastic tumour

Placental site trophoblastic tumours (PSTTs) and epithelioid trophoblastic tumours (ETTs) happen after pregnancy. They are extremely rare and are slow growing.

Living with gestational trophoblastic disease

Living with gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) can be difficult. Find out about ways of coping, getting support, and about fertility.

Resources and support for gestational trophoblastic disease

There are lots of organisations, support groups and helpful resources to help you cope with gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) and its treatment.

Last reviewed: 03 Oct 2025

Next review due: 03 Oct 2028