Sickle cell crisis and pregnancy

Pregnant women with sickle cell disease appear to be more likely to experience antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum complications when compared with unaffected women. Access to high-risk obstetric care, patient education, and close follow-up is important to minimize maternal morbidity and mortality. A high index of suspicion and good diagnostic acumen is necessary to obtain optimal results in the pregnant patient affected by sickle cell crisis. (c) 2013 Published by Elsevier Inc.