Platelets in pregnancy: Their role and function in disease

Abstract

Platelets are critical to normal haemostasis and help limit blood loss following vascular injury. In pregnancy, they become increasingly important in preventing excessive bleeding during and immediately following birth. Platelets undergo several changes to adapt to the specific requirements of pregnancy and to facilitate a pro-thrombotic state. Despite the enhanced role of platelets in effective haemostasis, changes in platelet function may also be associated with adverse medical conditions. Such conditions range from mild (e.g. gestational thrombocytopaenia) to severe (e.g. pre-eclampsia and thrombotic thrombocytopaenic purpura). This article discusses changes in platelet function and their role in the development of pathological conditions during pregnancy.