Lupus and Pregnancy: Intro

The first in a series of posts related to pregnancy and lupus.

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First of all, let me start by clarifying that I am NOT pregnant.

I've been debating about writing this post for a while now.  I wasn't sure if it was something I wanted to share with the interwebs, but it is something I'm sure a lot of lupies deal with, so I thought it was important to discuss.

My husband and I have been married a little over two years and we are often asked when we are going to have kids.  Most of the time I just smile and say "not yet," but inside a feel a little twinge of resentment against lupus.  While pregnancy with lupus can be successful, it comes with increased risk, and my doctors have recommended that I wait until I am in remission for at least six months before trying to get pregnant.  According to Rheumy, I am not in remission yet, so I have to continue to wait while my biological clock ticks away (I'm 31 now).

Lupus pregnancies are considered high-risk due to an increased risk of late-term miscarriage, premature delivery, and preecalmpsia.  In addition, there is an increased risk of heart problems in the baby and a risk of passing on neonatal lupus.  Depending on the medications the mother is taking to manage the lupus, there may be additional risks to both her and the baby.

Because of all of this, there is a little more planning that needs to be done prior to getting pregnant.  I've discussed getting pregnant with Rheumy and he suggested I consult with a maternal fetal specialist (aka a perinatologist) to assess my health and medications prior to getting pregnant.  I met with one last week and we discussed a lot.  I wish I had taken notes, but I'll do my best to recall our conversation in the next series of posts.  Much more to come...

- a little lupie -