Pregnancy in cystic fibrosis

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review summarizes recent knowledge regarding pregnancy in women with cystic fibrosis, including contraception, pre and postpartum medical care and outcomes, as well as reproductive decision-making.

Recent findings: Cystic fibrosis women have a fertility rate approaching that of the noncystic fibrosis population, and are faced with complex decisions regarding reproduction. Fortunately, recent clinical and epidemiological studies have provided valuable knowledge regarding the medical ramifications of pregnancy in cystic fibrosis women. More is known regarding the short-term medical outcome of the children of cystic fibrosis women.

Summary: Women with cystic fibrosis who become pregnant should anticipate more medical care and complications during pregnancy than noncystic fibrosis women, and more care than they normally require for their usual cystic fibrosis maintenance. Underlying cystic fibrosis-related diabetes mellitus will likely become apparent and require intensified treatment, and weight gain may be difficult. Long-term outcome for women with cystic fibrosis does not appear to be negatively impacted by pregnancy. Indeed, cystic fibrosis women who become pregnant and carry a child to term have better survival, even when corrected for lung function and nutritional status, than age-matched cystic fibrosis women who do not become pregnant. The offspring have a higher chance of being born prematurely than in the general population.