Position statement on the management of pregnancy in sickle cell disease.

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a hereditary haemoglobinopathy which causes multi-organ dysfunction. Pregnancies in SCD are high risk with significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, including vaso-occlusive crises, thrombosis, anaemia, placental insufficiency, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth and medication effects. High level evidence on this topic is lacking. The Australian Sickle Cell Disease Working Group has reviewed international guidelines on this topic and provide an up-to-date and structured approach to the pre-conception, antenatal, birth and post-partum management of these women. Early and comprehensive multidisciplinary care involving experienced clinicians is recommended.Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Australian and New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology published by John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd on behalf of Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.