Snakebite During Pregnancy: A Literature Review

ObjectiveTo review reported bites by venomous snakes in pregnant women.MethodsThis is a review of Medline/PubMed articles on venomous snakebites occurring during pregnancy reported in the English literature from 1966 to May 2009.ResultsTwo hundred thirteen venomous snakebites were reported in pregnant women. The overall case-fatality rate in the pregnant females was approximately 4%, and the fetal loss rate was approximately 20%.ConclusionsAlthough rare, venomous bites and stings during pregnancy may have a significant adverse effect on the fetus as well as the mother.