The correlation between low-dose aspirin consumption in pregnancy and fetal kidney size: a prospective case-control study

Introduction: Low-dose aspirin (LDA) has been widely studied for its benefits in preventing preeclampsia and other pregnancy complications. Objectives: Research indicates that aspirin may improve placental vascularization and fetal growth outcomes, particularly in high-risk populations. However, the specific impact of aspirin on fetal organ development, such as kidney size, remains underexplored. Patients and Methods: This prospective case-control study was conducted to assess the correlation between LDA consumption and fetal kidney size among pregnant women referred to Imam Khomeini hospital in 2024. Participants were divided into two groups those consuming LDA and those who did not. A structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic and medical history data, including details on aspirin use. Fetal kidney size was evaluated using standardized color Doppler ultrasound techniques. Data were compared between two groups of case and control using statistical tests, specifically linear regression. Results: The study included 144 mothers, evenly divided into two groups; a control group and a case group, each consisting of 72 participants. Maternal and gestational characteristics were similar between the two groups. The analysis revealed significant negative correlations between the intake of LDA and fetal kidney size, indicating that increased aspirin consumption was associated with reductions in both the lengths and widths of the right and left kidneys. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated a concerning association between LDA consumption during pregnancy and reduced fetal kidney size, suggesting that increased aspirin intake may adversely affect renal development in the fetus.