Women With Complex Vascular Anomalies: Impact on Contraception, Pregnancy and Reproductive Health

TL;DR

This study examines how complex vascular anomalies affect contraception and pregnancy in women, finding that individualized care is essential.

Contribution

The study provides insights into managing reproductive health for women with complex vascular anomalies.

Findings

Most women used oral contraceptives and intrauterine devices, with some experiencing worsened vascular anomalies.

Pregnancy often led to variable worsening of vascular anomalies, which improved after delivery or nursing cessation.

Three women experienced severe complications, highlighting the need for specialized care.

Abstract

Literature is scarce regarding contraceptive and reproductive health in women with complex vascular anomalies (VA).

To assess obstetrical, gynecological and reproductive health in this population.

Female adult patients of childbearing age from the VA clinic of a single tertiary care centre in Canada have been recruited by retrospective chart review, and administered phone interviews.

Of the 16 patients recruited (mean age 32.8 years old), 14 used oral contraceptive pills (OCP) and intrauterine devices, with 3 patients experiencing a worsening of their VA under OCP. Fifteen women had children, with 12 experiencing variable worsening of their VA that returned to baseline after delivery or nursing cessation. Three women had severe complications. Degree of complications was variable in each subsequent pregnancy.

Contraception and pregnancy management in women should be individualized and coordinated with a VA referral centre.

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