Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension and pregnancy outcome

Objective: Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) is a common cause of portal hypertension in developing countries, especially Asia. Recent data have shown near-normal reproductive function and good pregnancy outcome for NCPH compared with cirrhosis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate complications during pregnancy and pregnancy outcome in women with NCPH. Methods: Twelve pregnancies in five patients with NCPH were evaluated. Results: In the present study, 20% of patients had hematemesis during pregnancy that was managed successfully. Four patients (80%) had severe anemia (hemoglobin 6-7 g%) and three (60%) had thrombocytopenia. There were no preterm births. Of a total of nine live births, six were vaginal deliveries and three were delivered by Cesarean section (performed for obstetric indications). Four babies (44%) were small for gestational age (SGA). Conclusions: The results show that patients with NCPH have normal fertility, no apparent increase in the incidence of hematemesis during pregnancy, an increased incidence of SGA babies and no indication for elective Cesarean delivery.