New research from Sweden suggests that women diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) prior to pregnancy may face a higher risk of pregnancy complications, including preterm delivery and emergency cesarean sections. The study found MASLD to be associated with over three times the risk of preterm birth, and also observed higher rates of emergency cesarean sections. However, no clear links were found between MASLD and other major neonatal complications, and the severity of liver disease didn't correlate with a higher risk of preterm birth. The findings highlight the need for increased clinical vigilance among pregnant women with MASLD.

Source: eClinicalMedicine