Victoria AdolphusA recent study by McGill University has shed light on the increased risks of severe pregnancy complications for surrogate mothers, emphasizing the need for targeted healthcare strategies to protect their well-being.
Key Findings:
- Surrogate mothers face a higher risk of severe maternal morbidity (7.8%) compared to traditional pregnancies.
- Increased risk of hypertensive disorders, postpartum hemorrhage, and puerperal sepsis.
- Higher risk of preterm birth and severe neonatal morbidity.
Study Details:
Researchers analyzed over 10 years of data from the Better Outcomes Registry & Network (BORN) Ontario database, comparing 863,017 singleton births, including 806 from gestational carriers.
Demographics and Risk Factors:
Surrogate mothers were more likely to:
- Have given birth previously
- Reside in lower-income areas
- Have higher rates of obesity and chronic hypertension
- Be older and nonsmokers
Implications:
- Judicious selection of gestational carriers is warranted.
- Development of specific pregnancy care plans for surrogates.
- Further research needed to understand potential mechanisms.
Reference:
“Severe Maternal and Neonatal Morbidity Among Gestational Carriers: A Cohort Study” (Annals of Internal Medicine, 2024)
Share Your Thoughts:
How do you think healthcare strategies can be improved to protect the well-being of surrogate mothers?
