WHO releases first sickle cell pregnancy guideline

The World Health Organization has published its first global guideline for managing sickle cell disease during pregnancy, aiming to reduce maternal deaths from a condition that puts women at far higher risk. The guidance, released yesterday, offers practical recommendations for low- and middle-income countries where most cases happen but care options are often limited, according to a press release.

About 7.7 million people worldwide have sickle cell disease—numbers that have jumped more than 40% since 2000. The inherited blood disorder creates crescent-shaped red blood cells that jam blood vessels. This triggers severe anemia, painful episodes, and organ damage that gets worse during pregnancy when the body needs more oxygen.

WHO’s guideline contains more than 20 recommendations. These cover folic acid and iron supplements, managing pain crises, preventing infections and blood clots, using blood transfusions, and extra monitoring. Women with the disease are 4 to 11 times more likely to die during pregnancy than other women. Their babies also face higher chances of stillbirth or being born too early.

“It’s important that women with sickle cell disease can discuss their care options early in pregnancy—or ideally before—with knowledgeable providers,” said Dr. Doris Chou, who led the guideline development.

The guidance calls for care teams that include blood specialists, midwives, pediatricians, and pregnancy doctors. It also tackles stigma and discrimination that patients often face in healthcare settings, especially in regions where the disease is common but resources are tight.

This starts WHO’s new series on managing long-term diseases in pregnancy. Future guidelines will cover heart conditions, diabetes, breathing problems, and mental health disorders. The move shows growing awareness that chronic diseases are becoming major causes of pregnancy-related deaths and complications worldwide.