Lupus and infertility

SLE, also called Lupus erythematosus, is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs in the body. Lupus can sometimes lead to other serious diseases. However, the cause of this disease is unknown, although it may be associated with hormonal, genetic or environmental factors. In today's article we want to focus on SLE and infertility. 

Joint problems, skin problems, kidney problems and even problems in the brain and lungs are some of the consequences of this complex disease. However, there are different types of lupus, affecting many parts of the body. The most common is systemic lupus erythematosus. 

Cutaneous lupus, as the name suggests, causes skin problems, such as rashes or lesions, especially when the person is exposed to the sun. Neonatal lupus erythematosus is that which affects the baby while in the mother's womb or during the first months of life. 

On the other hand, certain medications can induce the disease, causing an overreaction, the symptoms of which disappear when the dose is stopped. Thus, it is important that treatment focuses on supporting the immune system, balancing hormones and preventing or treating outbreaks. 

The disease usually affects women. A statistic that has prompted research into how SLE affects fertility. 

Does Lupus affect fertility?

Although it is not a disease that is directly related to infertility, as many women with SLE have been able to become mothers, it is true that some problems have been detected before, during and after pregnancy. 

Many patients have seen their fertility reduced as a result of the outbreaks they have suffered. Anti-ovarian antibodies appear in these women, causing premature loss of menstruation, ovarian inflammation, complications during pregnancy or miscarriages.

It is therefore important for a woman with Lupus to plan her pregnancy through specialists doctors (gynaecologists, rheumatologists, etc.) and, if she has problems getting pregnant, it is important to find out about assisted reproduction techniques, which can be of great help!

It is important that you plan your future pregnancy at least six months in advance, so that you can modulate the medication that may affect the fetus and avoid flares or keep them to a minimum during pregnancy. 

If you suffer from this disease and would like more information about your pregnancy and risks, do not hesitate to make an appointment at our clinic. You can have a free first consultation with the best doctors, who will explain all the possibilities you have to achieve your dream without suffering complications for you or your baby. 

You can find more information in our Repro+ Pack section.