Pregnancy with lupus
Lupus per se is not contra
indication for pregnancy.
But the pregnancy should be
planned and regular visits to rheumatologists and gynaecologists are essential
as a part of monitoring the disease activity so that appropriate measures can
be taken at the right time.
The patient must be in a
state of clinical remission or minimal disease activity.
All serological markers,
specially Anti RO / LA antibodies and Anti phospholipid antibodies with Lupus
anti coagulant and beta -2 glycoprotien antibodies must be done.
Effect of pregnancy on Lupus
Pregnancy causes flare up of
Lupus activities and this should be appropriately dealt with.
Patient with Lupus have
higher risk of pre term birth increased caesarean section small for gestational
age babies along with still birth. Pre-eclampsia and Ecclampsia are more common
in Lupus mothers than in general.
Babies may suffer from a
disease known as a neo natal Lupus syndrome. This is characterised by skin
rashes and sometimes heart-blocks which poses an emergency. Anti RO / LA
antibodies are supposed predisposed to this condition.