Pregnancy Complications
Autoimmune Conditions
Pregnancy care for women with autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid autoimmunity.
What is Autoimmune Conditions?
Autoimmune conditions occur when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Common autoimmune conditions that affect pregnancy include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmune thyroid disease. Pregnancy can alter disease activity, and the conditions themselves can affect pregnancy outcomes.
Why is it a Concern?
Depending on the specific condition and its activity, autoimmune diseases in pregnancy can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, pregnancy loss, and neonatal complications. Some medications used to manage autoimmune conditions need to be adjusted before or during pregnancy.
Signs & Symptoms
- Flare-up of underlying condition symptoms during pregnancy
- Joint pain, skin rashes, or fatigue beyond normal pregnancy symptoms
- New or worsening proteinuria (protein in urine)
- Signs of fetal growth restriction on ultrasound
- History of pregnancy complications in previous pregnancies
How It is Monitored
Management involves close coordination between the obstetrician, rheumatologist, or relevant specialist. Regular blood tests monitor disease activity and organ function. Fetal growth and wellbeing are assessed with frequent ultrasounds. Medication adjustments are made to balance disease control with fetal safety.
Why See an MFM Specialist?
MFM specialists understand how autoimmune conditions interact with pregnancy physiology and can coordinate multidisciplinary care, interpret complex test results, and make decisions about delivery timing when both maternal and fetal wellbeing must be balanced.
Dr. Kartik Balaraman Manages This Condition
Dr. Kartik manages pregnancies complicated by autoimmune conditions, working closely with other specialists to optimise outcomes. If you have an autoimmune condition and are planning pregnancy or already pregnant, consult Dr. Kartik.
Book ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Can I get pregnant with an autoimmune condition?
Most women with autoimmune conditions can have successful pregnancies. Planning is important — ideally, the disease should be well controlled for several months before conception, and medications should be reviewed for pregnancy safety.
Will my condition get worse during pregnancy?
This varies by condition. Some autoimmune diseases improve during pregnancy (like rheumatoid arthritis), while others may flare (like lupus). Close monitoring allows early intervention if a flare occurs.
Are my medications safe during pregnancy?
Some autoimmune medications are safe during pregnancy, while others need to be stopped or switched. This should be discussed with your specialist before conception whenever possible.
Should I plan my pregnancy around my condition?
Where possible, conception is safest when the autoimmune condition has been stable for at least six months. Pre-pregnancy counselling helps plan the optimal time and review medications.
Can I breastfeed on immunosuppressive medication?
Many immunosuppressive medications are compatible with breastfeeding, but this should be reviewed individually. Dr. Kartik coordinates with your rheumatologist or relevant specialist.
Related Conditions
Blood Clotting Disorders
Conditions that affect blood clotting, increasing the risk of pregnancy complications including blood clots and placental problems.
Pre-eclampsia & Hypertension
Blood pressure disorders that can develop during pregnancy, requiring careful monitoring to protect both mother and baby.
Cardiac & Thyroid Conditions
Specialist pregnancy management for women with heart disease or thyroid disorders.
Reviewed by Dr. Kartik Balaraman, Consultant OBGYN & Maternal Fetal Medicine Sub-Specialist ·
This page is for general education and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or health, consult a qualified specialist directly.