Pregnancy Outcomes and Lupus Treatment

Pregnancy in women with lupus requires careful management to ensure the best possible outcomes for both the mother and the baby. Disease activity and medication choices play a crucial role in pregnancy planning and management.

For women with inactive or stable lupus, the chances of having a successful pregnancy are generally favourable. However, certain medications, such as immunosuppressants, may need to be modified or discontinued during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. Women with lupus are often advised to switch to medications deemed safer during pregnancy, such as hydroxychloroquine, a drug commonly used to treat lupus and autoimmune conditions.

On the other hand, uncontrolled or active lupus during pregnancy poses higher risks, including miscarriage, preterm birth, preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and neonatal lupus. To manage these risks, healthcare providers may prescribe corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants in carefully monitored doses to maintain disease control while minimizing harm to the developing baby.