Contraception and pregnancy after liver transplantation

Abstract

1. Libido returns promptly after liver transplantation; patients should be counseled on contraception and avoidance of sexually transmitted diseases. 2. Women after liver transplantation are at increased risk for cancer and should have regularly scheduled screening for cervical and breast cancer. 3. Immunosuppression during pregnancy is not teratogenic and does not lead to congenital anomalies. 4. Pregnancy after liver transplantation is often successful, but must be regarded as high risk, associated with an increased risk for hypertension and preeclampsia, intrauterine growth retardation, and prematurity. It is best delayed until 1 to 2 years after grafting. 5. Close monitoring of immunosuppressant levels in the blood is crucial during pregnancy to avoid inappropriately low levels of immunosuppression.