High risk hypertensive pregnancies: maternal and foetal outcome

Two hundred and thirty-six pregnant women were referred for assessment and management of hypertension and/or renal disease. A Unit consisting of a physician, an obstetrician and a perinatologist jointly assessed each patient and advised on management. All patients were hospitalized and at bed rest. Drug therapy was clonidine hydrochloride or methyl dopa and in some patients a vasodilator was added. The decision to deliver was dictated by foetal maturity and wellbeing, in conjunction with maternal condition. There was no maternal mortality and the overall perinatal survival was 97%. The outcome of these pregnancies compares favourably with studies previously reported and reflect a successful approach to management of high risk hypertensive pregnancies.