According to researchers in Nebraska and New York, female transplant patients are not adequately informed about fertility issues, contraception and chance of pregnancy after a solid organ transplant. The results of the study are published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology.
The Study
About 300 women were telephoned for a survey based on contact information listed at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. All women were between 19 and 49 years of age and had received single or multiple organ transplants at the medical center. About 180 of the women responded to the telephone survey.
Before the transplantations were performed, only 56% of women knew there was a chance of becoming pregnant after the surgery. Only 36% reported discussing contraception with a healthcare provider. About 50% of the women were using contraception with the majority using oral birth control pills. Thirty-one pregnancies were reported with 22 being planned.
Conclusion
Women undergoing solid organ transplants need to be educated on fertility, pregnancy, and contraception prior to surgery.
Source: French VA, Davis JS, Sayles HS, Wu SS. Contraception and Fertility Awareness Among Women With Solid Organ Transplants. Obstet Gynecol. 2013 Oct;122(4):809-814.