Crohn's disease and pregnancy.

Crohn's disease is occasionally associated with pregnancy, but only rarely does the firth manifestation of Crohn's disease appear during pregnancy. Two cases of Crohn's disease commencing during pregnancy are reported. The English-language literature reveals eight others-a total of 10. Review of these 10 cases indicates that surgery was required during pregnancy or shortly afterward in six. The 10 pregnancies yielded 11 infants, six of whom died. In this unusual situation there is an increased risk to both mother and infant. Progress of the intestinal disease may make surgical treatment during pregnancy urgently necessary.