Cerebrovascular complications during pregnancy and postpartum

Abstract

Cerebrovascular complications that more likely to occur during pregnancy or postpartum include cerebral venous thrombosis, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, and postpartum angiopathy, which although rare, can lead to serious outcomes for both mother and fetus. Pregnancy is a very unique condition, especially, in terms of treatment and, as such, neurointensivists must always consider its potential effects on the fetus. The purpose of this review is to help understand the physiological changes during pregnancy and postpartum, and to inform treatment decisions regarding pregnancy-related cerebrovascular complications.