Kidney disease and pregnancy

Chronic renal (kidney) disease

If you suffer from a long-term renal problem it is important that you seek pre conception advice before becoming pregnant. A pregnant woman with pre-existing renal disease is considered to be at high risk of developing pre-eclampsia, hypertension, pre-term delivery and her baby may be small-for-dates. The added strain put on renal function during pregnancy may also cause your renal condition to deteriorate.

If you have renal disease your care will be combined by your obstetrician and nephrologist. A hospital delivery is essential. The outcome of your pregnancy will depend on the severity of your renal disease, the stability of your blood pressure and prevention of kidney infections.

The aim of your care in pregnancy is to prevent any deterioration in your kidney function. Therefore, you will need to attend for antenatal visits more often. Renal function tests will be performed at intervals throughout your pregnancy and your blood pressure will be monitored carefully.

You will require admission to hospital if your kidney function deteriorates, your blood pressure increases or if there are any problems with your baby.

If your pregnancy progresses with no complications, your labour may be induced at 38 weeks.