Meta-analysis on obstetric and fetal outcomes
Meta-analysis showed a significantly higher chance on preterm delivery (OR 6.7 95% CI 5.1- 9.1), cesarean section (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.7-3.9), preeclampsia (OR 3.8, 95% CI 2.2-6.5) and small for gestational age neonates (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.6-4.2) in pregnant women with liver cirrhosis compared to pregnant women without liver cirrhosis (Figure 2). There was high heterogeneity in the analyses of preterm delivery, cesarean section and small for gestational age. The studies thought to be responsible for most heterogeneity were the studies of Rasheed et al. and Flemming et al., based on their study design, patient characteristics and inclusion criteria (see discussion). Sensitivity analyses after elimination of these two studies did lower the I2 on the outcomes preterm delivery (I2 before 94%, after 23%) and small for gestational (I2 before 71%, after 0%). The sensitivity analysis of cesarean section maintained moderate heterogeneity (I2 before 95%, after 68%).