Pregnancy in Lung Transplant Recipients

Eight female lung transplant recipients, all of whom became pregnant after transplant, were reported to the National Transplantation Pregnancy Registry from US transplant centers. Outcomes of the 8 pregnancies were 4 live births, 3 therapeutic abortions, and 1 spontaneous abortion. Three of the 4 newborns were premature, with low birth weight (< 2500 grams). Rejection during pregnancy occurred in 3 pregnancies (38%). All 8 transplant recipients reported at least 1 complication during pregnancy, including shortness of breath, rejection, and infection. Two of the 4 deliveries were by cesarean section. At follow-up, all children were developing well with no residual problems. Female lung transplant recipients may face higher risks during pregnancy than other solid organ transplant recipients.