Can Assisted Reproductive Technology Increase Stroke Risk During Delivery Hospitalization?

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been found to be significantly associated with an increased likelihood of stroke during delivery hospitalization, according to recent research. The association was observed to be significant regardless of the maternal age, suggesting a potential risk factor for stroke in pregnant women undergoing fertility treatment. These findings were presented at the International Stroke Conference and simultaneously published in Stroke.

The study, conducted by Alis J. Dicpinigaitis, MD, a resident in neurology at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, and colleagues, analysed over 19 million delivery hospitalizations from the National Inpatient Sample between 2015 and 2020. The primary endpoint of the study was the occurrence of any stroke, including ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, or cerebral venous thrombosis during delivery hospitalization.

The results of the study showed that ART use was associated with an increased likelihood of the primary endpoint by over two-fold. Specifically, ART use was linked to a greater likelihood of ischemic stroke, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and intracerebral hemorrhage during delivery hospitalization, compared to non-use. Surprisingly, ART use was also associated with decreased odds of cerebral venous thrombosis.

Furthermore, among delivery hospitalizations that resulted in any stroke, patients using ART had higher rates of in-hospital mortality and longer hospital stays compared with non-users. The study also revealed that the use of ART was associated with an elevated risk for any stroke among patients younger than 35 years and those aged 35 years or older.

In light of these findings, the researchers recommended expanding prior recommendations to have a thorough risk assessment before receiving ART to include all patients planning to undergo the treatment. They also suggest initiating treatments proven to reduce stroke risk and ensuring adequate control of known stroke triggers, particularly during delivery hospitalization for pregnant patients who received ART.

The study provides valuable insights into the potential health risks associated with ART and highlights the importance of considering the implications of fertility treatments on maternal health. It also underscores the need for further research to better understand the underlying mechanisms that link ART to an increased risk of stroke during pregnancy.

In conclusion, the research signifies the importance of carefully assessing the risks and benefits of assisted reproductive technology, especially in the context of maternal health outcomes. The study’s findings could have significant implications for healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers, prompting a re-evaluation of current protocols and guidelines surrounding fertility treatments and maternal care.