P611 Provision of care for pregnant women with IBD in the UK - the current landscape

Abstract

Abstract Background inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) results in increased rates of negative pregnancy outcomes; particularly in poorly controlled disease. We aimed to describe the current landscape of provision of antenatal care for women with IBD in the UK. Methods This cross-sectional study collected data on service set-up, on principles of care pre, during, and after pregnancy and on perceived responsibilities of clinicians. An online survey was distributed to all gastroenterology units in the UK. Results Data were provided for 97 of 273 IBD units. Pre-pregnancy counselling was not available in 7%, offered routinely (39%), or on request (54%) but predominantly (91%) in an ad-hoc fashion rather than in a dedicated set-up. Ninety-two per cent of units provided a nominated gastroenterology consultant during pregnancy. In 86% of this was the patient’s usual consultant rather than a consultant with expertise in pregnancy (14%). Combined clinics with obstetricians and gastroenterologists were offered in 14% of units only, but more often in academic rather than district hospitals (24% vs. 7%; p = 0.043) Otherwise, communication with obstetrics was ‘as and when required’ in 51% of cases. Patients were reviewed either every trimester (55%), monthly (15%) or ‘only when required’ (30%). The majority of respondents thought gastroenterologists should be involved in decisions regarding routine vaccinations (70%), breastfeeding (80%), folic acid dosage (61%), and VTE prophylaxis (53%). Sixty-five per cent of participants thought that gastroenterologists should be involved in decision-making regarding the delivery method. Regarding IBD indications for elective caesarean section, 94% of participants recommended these for active peri-anal disease, 30% for previous but healed peri-anal disease, 56% for ileo-anal pouch and 20% for previous abdominal and/or pelvic surgery. Conclusion In a nationwide survey on the provision of antenatal IBD care we found considerable variation in all aspects of service provision, particularly the availability of expertise and specialist services. We have detected areas of poor care (review only when required, communication ad-hoc only, poor provision of dedicated pre-pregnancy counselling). A significant minority of IBD units also felt that they do not need to provide input into areas such as VTE prophylaxis, delivery method and folic acid dosing. IBD indications for caesarean section seem to be poorly understood by a sizable minority. A basic framework to inform service set-up, and better education on the available clinical guidance for clinicians, is required to ensure consistent identification and review of patients and high-quality care.