Pregnancy and Sickle Cell Trait: An Examination of Their Interaction
In the realm of pregnancy complications, Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) stands out as a significant concern, particularly for expectant mothers. SCD, a group of genetic disorders affecting red blood cells, can lead to a myriad of complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm labor, painful vaso-occlusive episodes, and pre-eclampsia ([1], [3], [5]).
However, it's essential to clarify that Sickle Cell Trait (SCT), a condition where a person inherits only one sickle cell gene, does not generally increase the risk of pregnancy complications or stillbirth to a significant degree. SCT carriers are typically asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic ([1], [3], [5]).
When it comes to inheritance, if one parent has SCT, there's about a 50% chance they will pass the SCT gene to their child. The child will not have SCD but will be a carrier ([general genetic knowledge consistent with SCT genetics]). If both parents have SCT, there's a 50% chance their baby will also have SCT, and a 25% chance the baby will have SCD ([1], [3], [5]).
While SCT may not pose substantial risks to pregnancy, it's still advisable for individuals with SCT to inform their doctors and consider genetic counseling if more precise risk estimates are required.
On the other hand, individuals with SCD should be mindful of certain precautions during pregnancy. They are advised to avoid getting too hot or too cold, avoiding high altitudes, and avoiding situations with exposure to low oxygen levels. SCD can cause a continual shortage of red blood cells and can lead to pain, infections, and stroke ([1], [3], [5]).
Thankfully, improved healthcare facilities, antibiotics, vaccinations, and the availability of certain drugs such as hydroxyurea have increased the life expectancy of people with SCD. Furthermore, modern medical practices allow for the detection of SCD or SCT in a fetus using chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis.
Managing SCD pain during pregnancy may involve reducing the chances of experiencing SCD-related pain. Pregnancy in people with SCD is associated with an increased risk of death for both the pregnant person and the fetus, and pregnant people with SCD are at a higher risk of developing complications during pregnancy ([1], [3], [5]).
It's important to note that SCD can cause damage to the small blood vessels in the body, which can cause decreased circulation to the placenta and uterus, potentially leading to pregnancy loss and stillbirth. A 2020 study confirmed that subjects who tested positive for SCD had a higher rate of preeclampsia than those who tested negative ([1], [3], [5]).
While the risks associated with SCT during pregnancy are relatively low, it's always crucial to consult with healthcare professionals for personalised advice and guidance. With proper care and management, both SCT carriers and individuals with SCD can navigate pregnancy safely and confidently.
- Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) can lead to significant complications during pregnancy, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm labor, and pre-eclampisa.
- Sickle Cell Trait (SCT) carriers, who only inherit one sickle cell gene, do not generally face increased risks of pregnancy complications or stillbirth to a significant degree.
- If both parents have Sickle Cell Trait, there's a 50% chance their baby will also have SCT, and a 25% chance the baby will have SCD.
- Women with Sickle Cell Disease are advised to avoid getting too hot or too cold, avoiding high altitudes, and avoiding situations with exposure to low oxygen levels, as SCD can cause a continual shortage of red blood cells and lead to pain, infections, and stroke.
