[Sickle cell disease and pregnancy]

Abstract

Three million out of 4.5 million foreigners in Germany are from countries, where sickle cell anaemia is found. Today, this disease occurs in Germany with sufficient frequency and this makes it imperative for every physician to be familiar with it. Most of the sickle cell patients today attain the reproductive age. During pregnancy, sickle cell patients need very thorough medical care, because of the high foetal and maternal morbidity in this patient group. The main features of sickle cell disease are discussed and a survey of complications in pregnant sickle cell patients is presented. Suggestions are made regarding contraception and prenatal care.