To assess possible associations between inflammatory rheumatic disease and pregnancy complications/delivery practice.
In a population based study proportions were compared of obstetrical complications and interventions at delivery notified to the Medical Birth Registry of Norway during the years 1967-95 in women with (3,403) and without (671,221) rheumatic disease.
Women with rheumatic disease had significantly higher rates of preeclampsia and cesarean section. The relative risk of preeclampsia was particularly high in women with connective tissue disease in the years 1977-86. In women with inflammatory arthritides, the relative risk of preeclampsia was particularly high during 1987-95. The relative risk of cesarean section was high in all patient groups throughout the observation period and particularly in women with connective tissue disease.
High rates of preeclampsia and cesarean section in connective tissue disease pregnancies documented in a population based study emphasize the importance of monitoring and obstetrical interventions.