The Methods of Delivery for a Patient With HELLP Syndrome

HELLP syndrome, a serious but relatively rare obstetric complication, affects 0.2 to 0.6 percent of all pregnancies. Its complications can be life-threatening to both the mother and the fetus, with delivery the only cure.

What Is HELLP?

• HELLP occurs only in pregnant women. The acronym stands for the following:

  H: Hemolysis, or the breakdown of red blood cells

  EL: Elevated liver enzymes, which shows diminished liver function

  LP: Low platelet count (platelets enable the blood to clot)

  Symptoms include fatigue, headaches, upper right abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

Delivery Protocol

• Once a diagnosis of HELLP is confirmed through blood tests, the length of the pregnancy determines the delivery time. If the patient is at over 34 weeks' gestation---earlier if symptoms cannot be controlled through hospital bed rest and medication---prompt delivery is recommended.

Induction

• Previously, Cesarean delivery was recommended for mothers suffering from HELLP syndrome. But in some situations a surgical birth can cause more complications, because of the blood clotting problems that are a feature of HELLP. Now women at at least 34 weeks' gestation and with a favorable cervix are given the option of inducing labor and attempting a vaginal delivery.