Sickle Cell Disease in Pregnancy

This podcast provides a comprehensive clinical guide for managing sickle cell disease (SCD) during pregnancy, emphasizing that this population faces significantly higher risks of maternal and perinatal mortality. To improve outcomes, the experts recommend a multidisciplinary care team consisting of hematologists, genetics counselors, and pain management specialists. Key clinical protocols include aggressive fetal growth surveillance starting at 28 weeks, specialized vaccination schedules, and tailored pain management strategies that balance maternal well-being with neonatal withdrawal risks. The guide also addresses the cautious use of disease-modifying therapies like hydroxyurea and the necessity of individualized transfusion plans for high-risk patients. Furthermore, the document highlights the impact of structural racism on SCD healthcare and advocates for shared decision-making regarding reproductive options and contraception. Ultimately, the source serves as an evidence-based framework to navigate the complex physiological and pharmacological challenges inherent in high-risk obstetric care for those with SCD.