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Many patients with Rheumatic Disease experience symptom improvement during pregnancy

For years, women with rheumatic disease have been discouraged and/or advised not to get pregnant.  We now know that with careful medical and obstetric management most women can have a successful pregnancy.  If your patient(s) with rheumatic disease are considering pregnancy here are a few guidelines of what women should know about pregnancy and rheumatic disease. 

01 | Know the Effects 

Pregnancy affects each patient differently; therefore, it is imperative that you speak to your health care provider regarding how pregnancy can affect you and your treatment.  Also, discuss the possible side effects that medications can have on your baby.  

02 | Know the Facts

• Rheumatic diseases often affect women during their childbearing years, when pregnancy is an expected event.

• Diseases with the potential to affect the kidneys, especially lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), are more likely to affect pregnancy outcome than others.

• Rheumatic symptoms may change during pregnancy.  Symptoms often return shortly after delivery. 

• Treatment and medication(s) seldom change due to possible side effects.