Stroke in Pregnancy and Post-partum – Latest Developments in Conduct and Management

Abstract

Stroke in pregnancy and post-partum is a rare occurrence, yet with increasing incidence in the last decades. With a crude incidence rate of up to 30 per 100,000 pregnancies, high morbidity and mortality, research is needed to standardize prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of these cases. We present stroke particularities during pregnancy and puerperium and the current information from published articles regarding the latest developments in medical conduct. The mechanisms of stroke in pregnancy differ from those in the general population and are mostly in relation to the physiological changes during pregnancy. Stroke during pregnancy and post-partum is a rare but debilitating occurrence; with limited evidence and no clear guidelines, the treatment should be always individualized, and the risk-benefit ratio should always be considered.

Keywords

• stroke
• pregnancy
• vascular disease
• puerperium