Vertigo in Pregnancy: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Neurology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Pregnancy involves significant physical, hormonal, and psychological alterations.
• These changes can affect balance, leading to symptoms like vertigo and unsteadiness.
• Vertigo during pregnancy is under-researched, despite its potential for disability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a narrative review on the occurrence and characteristics of vertigo in pregnant patients.
• To explore the potential associations between hormonal changes and audiovestibular symptoms during gestation.
• To identify common vestibular disorders that may be exacerbated during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing literature on vertigo in pregnant individuals was performed.
• The review synthesized information regarding the causes, symptoms, and management of vertigo during pregnancy.
• Key focus areas included hormonal influences and the exacerbation of pre-existing vestibular conditions.

Main Results:

• Vertigo in pregnancy may be linked to hormonal fluctuations affecting the inner ear and peripheral structures.
• Conditions such as Meniere's disease, vestibular migraine, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo often worsen during pregnancy.
• Physical examination may reveal changes in hearing and proprioception, particularly in the second and third trimesters.

Conclusions:

• Vertigo is a notable symptom during pregnancy, influenced by physiological and hormonal shifts.
• Specific vestibular disorders commonly present or are exacerbated during pregnancy.
• Further research is essential to fully elucidate the clinical and pathological aspects of audiovestibular symptoms in pregnant women.