Inflammatory bowel diseases in pregnancy

Abstract

Summary Ulcerative colitis (CU) and Crohn’s disease (CD) are called inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). In the light of contemporary knowledge it is believed that a common feature of CU and CD is chronic gut inflammation which is the result of a combination of genetic, immunologic and environmental factors. CU and CD incidence peak is observed in the age group from 20 to 40 and, therefore, women in reproductive age consititute the bulk of it. Dagnostics is based on biochemical, endoscopic and histologic examinations whereas treatment is based on longterm anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive pharmacotherapy. Knowledge of the influence of IBD on pregnancy course and proper treatment allows us to reduce the risk of serious obstetric complications and significant adverse reactions to medication. In this review we discuss the issue of inflammatory bowel diseases affecting pregnant women, their impact on pregnancy and risk of obstetrical complications, as well as pharmacotherapy safety issues.