Pregnancy With Kidney Disease: Doctor Shares Risks, Care Tips And What Every Woman Should Know

Pregnancy with kidney problems brings with it its own set of challenges that every pregnant woman should know about before deciding to become pregnant. A prenatal visit from their doctor often reveals how conditions like CKD will exacerbate their condition because of the increased blood flow and fluid retention during pregnancy, leading to complications like preeclampsia, preterm deliveries, and progressing kidney dysfunction. However, with careful pre-pregnancy planning regarding blood pressure control and medication, many patients have had successful pregnancies. 

Advice given to pregnant women by experts concentrates on how to take care of the mother and baby proactively. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr Bhanu Mishra, Consultant - Nephrologis, Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, shares the risks, care tips and everything a woman should know about pregnancy and kidney disease.

Understanding The Risks

The kidneys aid in filtering out wastes and regulating fluid and blood pressure levels in the body. If one has reduced kidney function, pregnancy may put additional stress on the body. Dr Bhanu Mishra states, “Women with kidney diseases may be observed to be at a greater risk of conditions such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, anaemia, preterm delivery, and low birth weight babies, depending on the stage of her kidney disease, their blood pressure and proteinuria.”

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Importance Of Pre-Pregnancy Planning

It is recommended that women with kidney disease see a healthcare provider before pregnancy. A nephrologist and obstetrician can analyse the kidneys and help women determine the safety of pregnancy at this point in time. Some drugs, usually taken by people suffering from kidney disease and hypertension, might have to be switched because they can be detrimental to the baby.

Care Tips For Pregnancy With Kidney Disease (Image Credits: Canva)

Care Tips During Pregnancy

Continuous monitoring is essential throughout the pregnancy. These include constant blood pressure checks, blood and urine tests, and sonograms to evaluate the baby’s development. Dr Bhanu Mishra mentions, “ Adhering to sound blood pressure control, blood sugar (for diabetics), and healthy eating practices can certainly help alleviate issues.” Additionally, in certain instances, admission to the hospital for intensive monitoring becomes essential.

Delivery And After Birth

Even women who have mild issues with their kidneys may give birth successfully to a healthy baby. But early delivery is often necessary if complications occur. Kidney function will have to be closely monitored after delivery because pregnancy may lead to permanent deterioration of the health of the kidneys.

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Emotion And Lifestyle Support

Pregnancy in a woman with kidney disease can be a stressful experience. Supportive care from family, counselling sessions, and health education are valuable. Proper eating habits, avoiding smoking and alcohol consumption, adhering to supplements prescribed by doctors, and regular follow-ups are excellent ways for a better outcome.