[The donation of autologous blood in pregnancy. Observations on its safety and the cost-benefit relationship].

Experience with the collection of autologous blood during the last part of pregnancy in 57 women is reported. The authors confirm the safety of the autologous transfusion program but come to the conclusion that, with current entrance criteria, the cost-benefit ratio seems unfavourable. Therefore they suggest: a) the sole involvement of women with real potential hemorrhagic complications (placenta previa, multiple pregnancy); b) the collection, when possible, of at least 2 units of autologous blood.