Pregnancy Complications Increase Risk of Ischemic Stroke Before Age 50

Recent research from Radboud University Medical Center highlights a notable association between pregnancy complications and the elevated risk of ischemic stroke in women under 50. The study examined over a thousand women aged 18 to 49, including 358 who had experienced an ischemic stroke, and compared their pregnancy histories with those of 714 women without strokes. Findings revealed that more than half of the women who suffered a stroke had at least one pregnancy-related complication, whereas only about one-third of women without stroke had such issues. Particularly significant was the link between stillbirths and a nearly fivefold increase in stroke risk, alongside conditions like preeclampsia—characterized by high blood pressure and protein in urine—preterm birth, and gestational diabetes. These complications are often associated with vascular damage, including atherosclerosis.

Neurologist Frank-Erik de Leeuw emphasizes that, although the overall risk remains low, these pregnancy complications serve as important early warning indicators. Recognizing this, he advocates for healthcare providers to proactively inquire about women's pregnancy histories, enabling earlier intervention. While the exact mechanisms remain unclear, pregnancy’s significant physiological strain and potential vascular abnormalities during placental development may contribute to later vascular vulnerabilities that increase stroke risk.

The researchers suggest that preventive measures, such as routine blood pressure screenings, could be implemented starting earlier than current guidelines recommend, possibly before age 50. This proactive approach could help identify women at higher risk and facilitate early lifestyle modifications to reduce future stroke occurrence.

Stroke remains a leading global cause of death and disability, affecting up to 50% of populations in some regions. Common signs include facial drooping, slurred speech, and sudden weakness, underscoring the importance of early recognition. The study utilized data from large-scale databases focusing on young women’s health before and after pregnancy, providing valuable insights into the link between reproductive health and cardiovascular risk.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-pregnancy-complications-higher-ischemic-age.html