MAINTENANCE VENOM IMMUNOTHERAPY (VIT) appears safe and effective during pregnancy, according to a new multicentre Italian study. The findings provide important reassurance for clinicians managing pregnant patients with Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA), a condition associated with potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis after insect stings.
The study evaluated pregnancy outcomes in women receiving maintenance VIT across 14 Italian allergy centres. Researchers conducted a prospective, longitudinal analysis of women who became pregnant while already established on treatment.
A total of 68 women accounting for 86 pregnancies were included. Investigators assessed rates of spontaneous abortion, preterm birth, treatment-related adverse events (AEs), and reactions following accidental field stings during pregnancy.
No Increased Miscarriage or Preterm Birth Risk
Spontaneous abortion occurred in 11 pregnancies (12.8%), while preterm birth was reported in six cases (8.1%). Importantly, both rates were consistent with those expected in the general population, suggesting that ongoing VIT did not increase obstetric risk.
Regression analyses identified older maternal age and a history of previous miscarriage as factors associated with spontaneous abortion in unadjusted analyses. However, no characteristics related to venom immunotherapy itself were linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Treatment-related adverse events during pregnancy were rare. Only one mild and self-limiting reaction to VIT was documented throughout the study period. In addition, five women experienced accidental Hymenoptera stings while pregnant. Among these cases, just one large local reaction was observed, with no systemic reactions or subsequent pregnancy complications reported.
Study Supports Continuing Venom Immunotherapy in Pregnancy
The authors emphasised that untreated Hymenoptera venom allergy may pose substantial risks to both mother and fetus because of the possibility of severe anaphylaxis. Consequently, decisions regarding continuation of VIT during pregnancy are clinically significant.
Overall, the findings support continuation of well-tolerated maintenance VIT during pregnancy, with preserved protection against sting reactions and no evidence of increased risk for miscarriage, preterm delivery, or significant adverse events.
Reference
Martini M et al. Safety of venom immunotherapy in pregnancy: a multicentre study. Allergy. 2026; DOI: 10.1111/all.70386.
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