May be mistaken for pregnancy. A negative Beta HCG excludes pregnancy. All patients should be under the care of an obstetrician with interest and expertise in management of pregnancy in patients with sickle syndromes. All patients should be on folic acid, prenatal vitamins, and standard iron supplementation unless iron overload is present. Follow-up visits are usually scheduled every two weeks with weekly visits for complications and during the last four to six weeks.
Delivery is managed based on obstetrical considerations.
Spontaneous abortions, pyelonephritis, thrombophlebitis, and toxemia may be more common but management is the same as in patients without sickle syndromes. Transfusions should be reserved for symptomatic anemia, increase in the frequency of pain episodes, and chest syndrome with hypoxia. Preeclampsia and acute anemic episodes in HbSS women.are risk factors for infants who are small for gestational age. Nursing Considerations Pregnant cell patients should under the care of an obstetrician who has an interest and expertise in management of pregnancy in patients with sickle cell disease. Explain diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to the patient in relation to sensations the patient should be expected to feel, provide emotional support.