Hyperlipidaemia in the peripartum: epidemiology, physiology, and treatment options

Significant lipid metabolism changes during pregnancy are essential for fetal development. However, when complicated by pre-existing cardiometabolic risk factors like obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, there is an increased risk for adverse maternal and fetal outcomes and future cardiovascular events. Despite the rising prevalence of maternal obesity and other co-morbidities, there continues to be a lack of clear guidelines for screening and treating dyslipidaemia during pregnancy. This review aims to highlight the physiological changes in lipid metabolism during pregnancy, explore the association between dyslipidaemia and adverse outcomes, summarize current treatment options, and identify research gaps pertaining to management of perinatal dyslipidaemia. Enhancing our understanding of dyslipidaemia in pregnancy is crucial for improving maternal and fetal health outcomes, guiding future offspring risk assessment, and informing therapy guidelines.