Definition of Lupus in pregnancy
Lupus in pregnancy: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during pregnancy, a high-risk situation. The high risks are to both the mother and child. Women with SLE can have flares of SLE during pregnancy.
There is also a markedly increased risk of a miscarriage (spontaneous abortion). The presence of phospholipid antibodies, such as cardiolipin antibodies or lupus anticoagulant, in the blood of the mother can identify a high risk for miscarriage. Cardiolipin antibodies are associated with a tendency toward blood
clotting.
Women with SLE who have cardiolipin antibodies or lupus
anticoagulant may need blood thinning medications (aspirin with or without heparin) during pregnancy to prevent miscarriages. IV gamma globulin may be useful for selected patients with a history of miscarriage and those with low platelets during pregnancy.
Pregnant SLE women who have
had a previous blood clotting event may benefit by continuation
of blood thinning throughout and after pregnancy for up to 6-12 weeks, at which time the risk of clotting associated with pregnancy seems to diminish. Plaquenil appears safe for use to treat SLE during pregnancy.
See also: Neonatal lupus.
Last Editorial Review: 4/7/2004
- Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives) - Read about the different types of birth control pills (oral contraceptives) such as monophasic, biphasic, and triphasic. Find out which birth control pill may be the best for you.
- Flu Vaccine - Get the facts about influenza vaccine (flu shot) ingredients, side effects and vaccination effectiveness. Learn who should (children, pregnant women, elderly) and shouldn't get a flu shot.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI In Adults) - Learn about urinary tract infection causes, symptoms, signs, diagnosis and treatment of UTIs in men and women. Antibiotics may be used to treat recurrent bladder infections.
Latest Medical News
Back to MedTerms online medical dictionary A-Z List
