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- ISSN: 1573-4048
- E-ISSN: 1875-6581
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Maternal Outcomes in Females with β-thalassemia
- Source: Current Women's Health Reviews, Volume 22, Issue 2, Feb 2026, e15734048353042
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- 21 Sep 2024
- 15 Jan 2025
- 02 Jun 2025
Abstract
Introduction
Thalassemia, an inherited blood disease characterized by abnormal hemoglobin production, is a global health issue. Although the effects of thalassemia on human health are well-documented, less is known regarding its implications on pregnancy, particularly maternal outcomes. Analyzing thalassemia during pregnancy is crucial to understanding the risks, complications, and results. This research is essential for clinical practice and maternity care.
Objectives
The objective of this study was to determine the pregnancy outcomes in females with β-thalassemia minor visiting Jinnah Hospital and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Lahore.
Methodology
This was a case-control study. A validated questionnaire was used to assess key socio-demographic variables relevant to the study, certain practices, and maternal outcomes. Information was entered, and results were obtained using SPSS version 24.0.
Results and Discussion
Using purposive sampling, the study enrolled 92 pregnant females (46 cases, 46 controls). It was observed that beta-thalassemia increases the risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) by 3.23 times (p = 0.025, OR = 3.226 (95% CI: 1.12-9.27)). Moreover, the risk of preeclampsia also increased by 5.08-fold in pregnant women (p = 0.005, OR = 5.081, (95% CI: 1.53-16.81)). Women with β-thalassemia minor had a statistically significant greater prevalence of blood transfusions before pregnancy (p < 0.001) and during pregnancy (p = 0.019) compared to women without the disease. Low birth weight infants were more likely to be born to mothers with beta-thalassemia. In healthy pregnant women, a birth weight above 2500 g is more common, whereas in β-thalassemia cases, the opposite is true (p = 0.002, OR = 4.355 (95% CI: 1.67-11.33)).
Conclusion
While β-thalassemia minor is usually asymptomatic prior to pregnancy, women who have it are more likely to experience adverse pregnancy outcomes than women who do not. These include a higher incidence of low birth weight babies, oligohydramnios, pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, preterm membrane rupture, anemia, and hypertension. Both before (p < 0.001) and during pregnancy (p = 0.019), they also show a markedly elevated need for blood transfusions. These results highlight the significance of focused prenatal treatment and monitoring in this population to reduce adverse consequences.
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