Increased Premature Birth Risk Linked To Liver Disease In Pregnant Women

A recent study has highlighted a concerning link between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and an increased risk of premature birth among pregnant women.

The study, conducted by researchers at Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet, found that women with MASLD were more than three times more likely to give birth prematurely compared to those without the condition.

This risk not explained by obesity alone, suggesting that the liver disease itself plays a significant role.

Understanding MASLD And Its Rising Prevalence

MASLD, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, is a growing concern globally, affecting an estimated three out of ten people.

The condition commonly associates with metabolic disorders like Type 2 diabetes and obesity, and its prevalence is rising, particularly among women of reproductive age.

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The study, published in eClinicalMedicine, focused on the effects of MASLD during pregnancy and its impact on both the mother and child.

Key Findings Of The Study

The researchers analysed Swedish registry data, involving 240 births from women diagnosed with MASLD, alongside 1,140 births from a matched control group.

The study revealed that women with MASLD were 63% more likely to require a caesarean section, though this risk seemed linked to high body mass index (BMI) rather than the liver disease itself.

Importantly, the study also found that the increased risk of premature birth did not correlate with the severity of MASLD, indicating that the condition alone could contribute to pregnancy complications.

Impact On Maternal Health

Lead author Carole A Marxer, a postdoctoral researcher at Karolinska Institutet, emphasised that the link between MASLD and premature birth could not be solely attributed to BMI.

She explained, “This suggests that the liver disease itself can have negative effects on pregnancy outcomes.”

The study also ruled out an increased risk of congenital malformations or stillbirths among women with MASLD, although the researchers acknowledged that other unexamined factors could influence the outcomes.

Recommendations For Pregnant Women With MASLD

Given the findings, the researchers stress the importance of close monitoring for pregnant women diagnosed with MASLD to mitigate the risk of complications.

They also suggest that clinical guidelines for MASLD should incorporate specific recommendations for pregnant women to ensure better care and outcomes during pregnancy.