Peptic ulcer disease during pregnancy

Abstract

Peptic ulcer disease during pregnancy has to be separated from its management and treatment in the general popula-tions. It was demonstrated to have a low incidence rate, with symptoms, frequency and complications decreasing due to maternal hormones. We aimed to outline the actual management and treatment of peptic ulcer disease (PUD) during pregnancy. We performed a literature review by searching relevant information on the subject in PubMed database using the keywords: peptic ulcer disease, pregnancy, H2 receptor antagonists, proton-pump inhibitors, fetal, congenital abnor-malities. Current literature studies show a decreased rate of both incidence and symptoms in pregnant women compared to the general population. Step by step therapy combines both lifestyle modifications and medical drugs for the benefit of both mother and fetus. It is difficult to differentiate from the beginning between PUD and gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) or hyperemesis gravidarum, due to similar symptoms. An accurate anamnesis and a good understanding of serological and paraclinical investigations can define the right diagnosis. Management of this pathology in a pregnancy state can be difficult, but a compliant attitude of the mother together with an organized medical approach can facilitate treatment.