Women With History of Stroke Have Increased Risk During or Shortly After Pregnancy

Having had a stroke caused by blocked blood vessels (ischemic stroke) more than doubled an expectant mother’s odds of having another stroke during pregnancy and within six weeks of childbirth, according to a preliminary study presented at the American Stroke Association’s International Stroke Conference 2026. The meeting was in New Orleans, Feb. 4-6, 2026, and is a world premier meeting for researchers and clinicians dedicated to the science of stroke and brain health.