Obstetric risk factors requiring intensive care admission

Management of high risk obstetric patients in critical care setting is challenged by altered physiology of pregnancy and concerns for the viability of the fetus. Pregnant patients, although young and healthy are at risk of developing thromboembolic complications, hemorrhage and infections. Obstetric hemorrhage, pre-eclampsia, cardiac diseases and sepsis are the main reasons for ICU admission in obstetric population. Delay in the diagnosis and correction of correctable conditions can ultimately require intensive care admission. There is a contrast in the overall incidence and prevalence of intensive care unit admission between developed and developing countries. Early clinical suspicion, timely referral and early institution of critical care of high risk patients may improve maternal outcome. Improvement of healthcare infrastructure and timely referral to tertiary care facilities may help reduce maternal mortality in developing countries.