Thalassemia > Pregnancy > Health of the Mother

Pregnancy and Thalassemia: Health of the Mother

It is important to consider that the physiological stress of pregnancy can potentially exacerbate some of the symptoms of thalassemia in the expectant mother. The heart, liver, and endocrine system are particularly vulnerable in the pregnant woman with thalassemia disease. Evaluation of the functioning of each of these systems prior to and throughout pregnancy is important. Therefore, continued care by a hematologist is a necessity. The hematologist is integral to monitoring the transfusion regimen, which tends to increase in pregnancy, as well as the administration and dosages of iron chelating agents and other medications. A high-risk obstetrician, or perinatologist, is also needed to monitor the health of the expectant mother, as well as her fetus.