Rectovaginal Fistula From Untreated Ulcerative Colitis in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Inflammatory bowel disease can have reproductive consequences depending on disease severity at the time of conception and antepartum management. A 37-year-old G1 with ulcerative pancolitis initially did not disclose her medical history to the obstetrics providers. She developed worsening hematochezia and microcytic anemia and declined antepartum treatment of ulcerative colitis. She then developed a rectovaginal fistula, underwent cesarean delivery but declined intraoperative management of the fistula, and started treatment after significant postpartum weight loss. She was ultimately lost to follow-up care. For patients with ulcerative colitis, a multidisciplinary team approach should be utilized to identify barriers to care, prevent disease progression, and optimize pregnancy outcomes. Delivery methods should be individualized to the patient, and further studies are necessary to establish guidelines.