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Is maternal growth hormone essential for a normal pregnancy?
A J Curran1, S R Peacey, S M Shalet
1Department of Endocrinology, Christie Hospital, Manchester, UK.
European Journal of Endocrinology
|August 14, 1998
Summary
Pregnancy in women with growth hormone (GH) deficiency is generally safe for both mother and baby. Maternal GH deficiency does not appear to negatively impact pregnancy outcomes or fetal development.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Pituitary disease can lead to growth hormone (GH) deficiency in women.
- The impact of maternal GH deficiency on pregnancy outcomes is not well-established.
- This study aimed to investigate the safety of pregnancy in GH-deficient women.
Observation:
- A retrospective study analyzed 25 pregnancies in 16 women with known GH deficiency.
- Pregnancy outcomes included live births (26 from 25 pregnancies), multiple births, and first-trimester abortions.
- Maternal complications such as preeclampsia and postpartum hemorrhage were documented, along with fetal birth weights and congenital abnormalities.
Findings:
- Pregnancy in GH-deficient women resulted in a low incidence of maternal morbidity.
- Fetal outcomes were generally favorable, with birth weights distributed across centiles.
- GH replacement therapy may not be essential during pregnancy for these individuals.
Implications:
- The findings suggest that pregnancy is not detrimental for GH-deficient females.
- This research supports a conservative approach to GH replacement therapy during pregnancy.
- Further research could explore optimal management strategies for GH-deficient women planning pregnancy.