Lupus and pregnancy

What is lupus?

Systemic lupus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects various organs. It progresses with phases of remission (improvement) and exacerbations (worsening). Women are more frequently affected than men. During the course of lupus, antibodies such as anti-Ro and anti-La appear in the body. Symptoms of the disease include weakness, fever, fatigue, weight loss and skin changes such as butterfly-shaped erythema on the face. Muscle and joint pain can also occur.

Lupus – Preparation for pregnancy

Women with lupus should prepare for pregnancy together with their rheumatologist and gynaecologist. It is extremely important that the disease is well controlled. It is assumed that remission should last at least 6 months before pregnancy. If teratogenic drugs have previously been taken, an even longer period may be required. Studies have shown that systemic lupus itself does not affect fertility (in remission), but can lead to complications during pregnancy. It is therefore considered a high-risk pregnancy and requires specialised care.

Pregnancy with lupus

An expectant mother who has lupus should receive special care throughout her pregnancy. It is necessary to check antibody levels or assess kidney function. This is because one of the most common complications of lupus during pregnancy is kidney disease. A thorough ultrasound examination and assessment of foetal growth are also important. A general urine test and blood pressure measurements should also be carried out regularly. Treatment should also be adapted to the situation before pregnancy in consultation with the doctor.

Lupus – complications during pregnancy

If a woman becomes pregnant during an exacerbation of a disease such as systemic lupus, it can lead to a miscarriage or intrauterine death. For this reason, it is very important to prepare well for pregnancy and to be under the constant care of a specialist.

Newborns of women with lupus have a higher risk of low birth weight. They are also more likely to be born prematurely (before 37 weeks). Expectant mothers with lupus have an increased risk of pre-eclampsia and high blood pressure during pregnancy.

However, with good preparation for the pregnancy and under the supervision of an experienced specialist, it is possible to bring the pregnancy to a happy end.