Acid-base disorders in pregnancy

Pregnancy is marked by numerous physiological changes. These can promote the occurrence or exacerbate existing acid-base disorders. An acid-base disorder of the mother can be transmitted to the fetus, which can hardly compensate for the disorder due to lack of function of the lungs and kidneys. Diabetic women have an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis during pregnancy and the disease course is often more severe. In the case of pre-existing acid-base disorders, such as renal tubular acidosis or Gitelman's syndrome, metabolic derangements occur more frequently during pregnancy; therefore, close monitoring and early therapy adaptation are crucial. Overall, the presence of acid-base disorders during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of complications in the mother and fetus; however, the outcome can be positively influenced by anticipation of possible problems, adequate monitoring and interdisciplinary cooperation between nephrologists, obstetricians and neonatologists.