Cirrhosis and portal hypertension in pregnancy

Cirrhosis and portal hypertension infrequently coincide with pregnancy but increase maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality when present. Chronic liver disease and portal hypertension are not contraindications to pregnancy but necessitate intensive monitoring throughout pregnancy. The complications of liver disease are numerous and pose additional risks. Management of complications arising during pregnancy is similar to management in the nonpregnant patient. Provision of optimal care for mother and fetus can require the skills of multiple specialties such as maternal fetal medicine, gastroenterology, nutrition, and surgery. This report provides guidelines for the management of cirrhosis and portal hypertension in pregnancy.