Thrombocytopenia in Pregnancy: Clinical Challenges, Maternal–Fetal Risks, and Management Strategies

Journal article : Review

Thrombocytopenia affects up to 10% of pregnant women and represents the second most common blood disorder during pregnancy. Its causes include immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count (HELLP) syndrome, preeclampsia (PE), and benign pregnant thrombocytopenia. Diagnosis is crucial because the cause dictates the effect on maternal health, pregnancy management, and neonatal outcomes. This narrative review examines the range of thrombocytopenia during pregnancy, primarily focusing on diagnostic evaluation, underlying pathophysiological causes, and differential diagnosis. In addition, it organizes maternal and fetal complications that might be caused by the condition, such as bleeding, preterm birth, and neonatal thrombocytopenia. Moreover, current patient management based on available evidence and clinical practice is discussed, including immunomodulatory therapies, platelet transfusions, clinical monitoring, and supportive care. A thorough and clinically guided approach to thrombocytopenia in pregnancy is indispensable for maximizing maternal and fetal outcomes and facilitating the personalization of perinatal care.

Authors: Stavros, S; Kathopoulis, N; Gerede, A; Grigoriadis, T; Moustakli, E

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: MDPI
• Journal: Life
• Volume: 16
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 462
• Article number: 462
• Publication date: 2026-03-12
• Acceptance date: 2026-03-09
• DOI: 10.3390/life16030462
• EISSN: 2075-1729
• ISSN: 2075-1729
• Language: English
• Keywords: autoimmunity; platelet transfusion; thrombotic microangiopathy; hypertensive disorders; neuraxial anesthesia; peripartum hemorrhage; HELLP syndrome
• Subtype: Review