Pregnancy outcome in women with sickle cell trait.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to assess the pregnancy outcome among Omani women with sickle cell trait (SCT), and to compare it with a control group of Omani women with normal hemoglobin.

METHODS

Relevant data of both groups was obtained from labor room records, patient files and computerized records at the Nizwa Hospital, Dakhliya Region, Nizwa, Oman from January 1999 to July 2000. Available data was analyzed.

RESULTS

Three thousand, five hundred and one pregnant Omani women were included in this study, 319 had SCT (9.1%), the average age was 27 years in both groups, and 51% were primigravida. There was an increase in the incidence of anemia in the SCT women. The incidence of abortion and neonatal death in previous pregnancies was significantly increased among SCT women.

CONCLUSION

Pregnant women with SCT need special care and attention during pregnancy, labor, puerperium and surgery. They should be identified early to prevent complications such as anemia, infection and fetal wastage.