Pregnancy & Lupus

Table of Contents

Most pregnancies of mothers with Lupus are normal but there are increased risks and considerations.  Lupus carries a much higher risk of miscarriage than in the general population, particularly for those patients with the antiphospholipid antibody.  Lupus also carries a higher risk for pre-term birth.  About 1-2% of babies born to mothers with Lupus will develop neonatal Lupus.  Pregnancy can also bring on a Lupus flare in the mother.  Pregnancy is taxing on the healthiest of bodies so it stands to reason that it would be even more so on a body that is already fighting Lupus. 

Pregnancy in Lupus patients should be timed during periods of remission whenever possible and should always be closely monitored.  Treatments used for Lupus can cause infertility and many of the medications used to treat Lupus are not suitable for pregnant or nursing mothers.  Please discuss pregnancy and complications from Lupus with your Ob/Gyn and Rheumatologist before becoming pregnant.

Here are some articles you can read for further information on Lupus and pregnancy.

John's Hopkins Research on Lupus and Pregnancy

LFA Lupus and Pregnancy Information Page

NIAMS patient information sheet on Lupus and Pregnancy

S.L.E. Pregnancy & Lupus Page

Autoimmune medications and pregnancy