The researchers utilized a large-scale data set from the Korean Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database, which included information from 1,251,597 women who had a singleton birth in South Korea from 2010 to 2019. Among the study participants, 2.6% had endometriosis. The study compared the clinical characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of women with endometriosis to those without the condition.
The results revealed that women with endometriosis had a higher average maternal age at delivery and higher rates of assisted reproductive technology-induced pregnancies compared to women without endometriosis. Furthermore, women with endometriosis experienced a significantly higher incidence of major adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm labor and birth, gestational hypertensive disorders, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes, placenta previa, placental abruption, malpresentation of the fetus, and stillbirth.
In a subgroup analysis, the researchers adjusted for factors such as maternal age, parity, assisted reproductive technology, and previous hypertension and diabetes, and still found significantly higher rates of cesarean delivery among women with endometriosis. These findings suggest that women with a history of endometriosis should be considered high risk during pregnancy and require specialized antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum management.
It is important to note that previous studies with small sample sizes have reported no relationship between endometriosis and pregnancy outcomes. However, the current study, which utilized a large-scale data set, provides robust evidence of the association between endometriosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
These findings have significant implications for healthcare providers and women with endometriosis who are planning to conceive or are currently pregnant. It underscores the importance of proactive management and close monitoring throughout the pregnancy journey for women with endometriosis. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the increased risk for adverse outcomes and develop individualized care plans that address the specific needs and risks associated with endometriosis.
Additionally, women with endometriosis should be well-informed about the potential risks and challenges they may face during pregnancy. Open communication with healthcare providers is crucial to ensure that they receive the necessary support and personalized care required to mitigate these risks.
In conclusion, this study adds to the growing body of evidence that highlights the association between endometriosis and adverse pregnancy outcomes. It emphasizes the need for increased awareness, research, and support for women with endometriosis during their reproductive years. By understanding the risks and taking appropriate measures, healthcare providers can help optimize outcomes for women with endometriosis and their babies.
<< photo by Elle Cartier >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
