Management of stroke and pregnancy

Abstract

Stroke continues to be one of the main causes of death in the developed countries and the incidence in pregnancy appears to be increasing. Pregnancy-related stroke has a relatively high mortality rate of 10% and so clinicians need to be mindful of appropriate investigations and referral of a pregnant woman with suspected stroke, so they can receive timely treatment. In this review we address the risk factors associated with stroke, diagnosis and appropriate management of the different stroke types. We also discuss implications for care around pregnancy and delivery as well as reviewing how a pregnancy with previous stroke should be managed.