Lupus and Pregnancy

A healthy pregnancy is possible if you have lupus. However, lupus can raise your risk of certain pregnancy complications. Your pregnancy will require careful monitoring.

Lupus during pregnancy can raise your risk for:

• Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
• Pregnancy loss (miscarriage or stillbirth)
• Preterm birth
• Lupus flares
• Blood clots, especially if you have antiphospholipid antibodies
• Lupus nephritis flares

If you are thinking about becoming pregnant, it is important to:

• Talk to your lupus doctor and OB-GYN clinician at least 3 to 6 months before trying to conceive
• Wait until your lupus has been well managed for at least 6 months before trying to get pregnant
• Review your medications — some lupus medications are not safe to take during pregnancy

Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune condition that can occur on its own. It can also happen in people with lupus and other conditions. It increases your risk of blood clots, pregnancy loss and stroke. If you have antiphospholipid antibodies, your team may recommend blood thinners to protect you and your baby during pregnancy.

Rarely, babies born to mothers with lupus may have a condition called neonatal lupus. The most common symptom is a temporary skin rash that usually goes away within 6 months. Neonatal lupus can also potentially damage the developing fetal heart. We work with maternal-fetal medicine specialists (perinatologists) who have experience managing high-risk pregnancies. Together, your care team will create a plan to support a healthy pregnancy.