Lupus In Pregnancy - What Should I Know?

Continuing the lupus thread duing Lupus Awareness Month, let's look at lupus during pregnancy. First, you should know that having lupus does not preclude a successful pregnancy outcome. There are risks involved, however, for both mom and baby. The March of Dimes ists the following:

What problems can lupus cause during your pregnancy?

Lupus may increase the risk of these problems during pregnancy:

Lupus flares. You may experience flares during pregnancy or in the first few months after giving birth. If your lupus is in remission or under good control, you’re less likely to have flares.

Preeclampsia. This is a certain kind of high blood pressure that only pregnant women can get.

Premature birth. This is birth that happens too early, before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

Miscarriage. This is when a baby dies in the womb before 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Stillbirth. This is when a baby dies in the womb after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

If you’ve been in remission or had your condition under good control for at least 6 months before pregnancy, you’re less likely to have complications. Talk with your health care provider before getting pregnant about the safest time for pregnancy.

What problems can lupus cause in your baby?

Most babies of mothers with lupus are healthy. However, some babies may face health risks, like:

Premature birth. About 3 in 10 babies (30 percent) of mothers with lupus are born prematurely. Premature babies may need to stay in the hospital longer or have more health problems than babies born full term (39 to 41 weeks of pregnancy).

Neonatal lupus. About 3 in 100 babies (3 percent) are born with this temporary form of lupus. This condition causes a rash and blood problems but usually clear up by 6 months of age. However, up to half of these babies have a heart problem called heart block. This is a condition that causes a slow heartbeat. Heart block is often permanent. Some babies need a pacemaker to help make their heart beat regularly.

As you would expect, pregnancy for a lupus patient is hardly a walk in the park. However, there is ample evidence that remission in disease activity optimizes a woman's chances for a successful outcome.

During pregnancy, expect to see two consultants on a regular basis - the Maternal Fetal Subspecialist and your Rheumatologist. Expect to have many tests and frequent visits. Do keep your appointments to give yourself and your baby the best possible odds. And above all else, hang in there. You can emerge with a healthy, happy baby.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for an ultrasound, call: (718-925-6277)