Lisa R. Sammaritano, MD, rheumatologist at HSS and Director of the Rheumatology Reproductive Health Program of the Barbara Volcker Center for Women and Rheumatic Diseases speaks to Health Central about pregnancy and reproductive health considerations for women living with lupus.

Lupus, also known as systemic lupus erythematosus, is a chronic disease that causes the immune system to attack its own tissues. Anyone can get lupus, but mostly women develop the autoimmune condition. The inflammation that goes along with lupus can cause a variety of issues including arthritis, fevers, rashes, and fatigue. 

Many women with lupus have concerns about whether they can safely become pregnant.

“Most women living with lupus can have successful pregnancies. The key to pregnancy success lies in planning. The presence of quiet or low-level disease activity improves outcomes for both mother and baby,” explained Dr. Sammaritano. Dr. Sammaritano says that six months of low disease activity before conception can reduce the risk of lupus flare during pregnancy and improve pregnancy outcomes.

Read the full article at healthcentral.com.