SUMMARY
Objective. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of ischemic stroke in young women aged 18–44, including pregnant and postpartum individuals. Materials and Methods. Based on observations conducted at the Republican Clinical Hospital during 2022–2024, a total of 70 female patients with acute ischemic stroke were included and divided into three groups: pregnant, postpartum, and non-perinatal women. Results. The findings indicated that stroke occurred at a younger age in pregnant and postpartum women and was characterized by a more severe clinical course. Among pregnant women, the occurrence of PRES (Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome), elevated blood pressure, and higher NIHSS (National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale) scores were more frequently observed. According to the TOAST classification, the leading etiology in the perinatal period (pregnant and postpartum women) was attributed to other determined causes, whereas large artery atherosclerosis predominated in non-perinatal women. Post-stroke recovery outcomes were relatively better in postpartum women, although this difference was not statistically significant. Hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular diseases were more commonly observed in non-perinatal women. Conclusion. Pregnancy and the postpartum period should be considered important risk periods for ischemic stroke, and early diagnosis and preventive measures should be strengthened in these groups.
Keywords: ischemic stroke, young women, pregnancy, postpartum period, risk factors, localization

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