Pregnancy Among Women Receiving Chronic Dialysis in France (2006-2020)

Introduction: In women receiving chronic dialysis, fertility is impaired. The objectives of this study were to estimate the incidence rate of pregnancies among women of childbearing age (15-50 years) receiving chronic dialysis from 2006 to 2020 in France, to describe the pregnancy outcomes and renal management during pregnancy.

Methods: This national observational, retrospective study was based on data from the French REIN registry matched with the National Health Data System.

Results: Over the period 2006 to 2020 in France, 348 pregnancies were identified in 240 women receiving chronic dialysis. The overall incidence of pregnancy was 11.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) (9.9-12.3) cases per 1000 person-years. Hemodialysis was the predominant modality during pregnancy. Main maternal complications were preeclampsia (n = 19) and gestational diabetes (n = 11). The most obstetric complications were premature rupture of membranes (n = 14) and polyhydramnios (n = 5). These pregnancies resulted in 174 (50%) abortions (<22 weeks), including 104 elective abortions (29.9%), 44 miscarriages (12.6%), 17 therapeutic abortions (4.9%), 5 ectopic pregnancies (1.4%), and 4 hydatidiform moles (1.2%). The remaining 174 (50%) pregnancies with deliveries (≥22 weeks) resulted in 166 live births (70 full-term [42.2%], 96 preterm births [57.8%]), and 8 stillbirths. Median gestational age was 36 weeks (32-38) for 174 deliveries.

Conclusion: There have been improvements in maternal and fetal outcomes regarding pregnancy on chronic dialysis. However, our study shows a significant proportion of elective abortions. Better fertility management of women receiving chronic dialysis is advised by contraception or by pregnancy planning and early multidisciplinary follow-up.