Autoimmune disorders occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own healthy tissues. This can cause problems during pregnancy, and in some cases, may even lead to infertility
or affect your baby’s health.Your symptoms may get better or worse while you are pregnant, as everyone’s experience is different. That’s why it’s important to spot the signs early. With the right care and advice from your healthcare expert, you can manage the condition and reduce the risks. Following expert guidance is key to keeping both you and your baby safe during pregnancy.Autoimmune Disorders: An Overview
Autoimmune diseases are ones in which your immune system attacks your cells, misidentifying them as foreign invaders. This aberrant reaction could harm several organs and tissues and create inflammation. These conditions may require particular care and raise the likelihood of problems during pregnancy.Autoimmune diseases can affect each pregnancy differently, depending on the condition and how it is managed. Some may get better, stay the same, or become worse during pregnancy. With good care and regular check-ups, you can manage the condition and help ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.Types of Autoimmune Disorders
Several types of autoimmune disorders can affect pregnancy. Common ones include:Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks multiple organs, including the skin, kidneys, and heart. During pregnancy, SLE can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and pre-eclampsia. In SLE, some antibodies can pass through the placenta and may cause problems for your baby, like neonatal lupus or heart block.Flare-ups are common, especially after birth, and kidney problems can increase pregnancy risks. It's important to get the disease under control before getting pregnant and to have regular check-ups during pregnancy to help keep you and your baby healthy.Rheumatoid arthritis affects your joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. During pregnancy, you may find that your symptoms improve, likely due to hormonal or immune changes. However, flare-ups are common after childbirth.While the disease itself does not usually harm your baby directly, active inflammation or certain medications can pose risks. Managing arthritis before and during pregnancy, with regular check-ups, helps reduce risks for both you and your baby.Autoimmune thyroid diseases (Hashimoto’s, Graves’)
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease are autoimmune conditions which affect your thyroid gland. Hashimoto’s leads to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while Graves’ causes an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Both conditions can disrupt hormone levels essential for your baby’s growth and brain development. Uncontrolled thyroid disease may increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, and developmental problems. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where your immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Keeping your blood sugar levels stable during pregnancy is crucial, as uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of birth defects, miscarriage, or excessive foetal growth.It’s best to monitor your blood sugar more frequently and accordingly adjust insulin doses. With careful planning, dietary management, and regular check-ups, you can reduce risks and support a healthy pregnancy and baby.Antiphospholipid syndrome
Antiphospholipid syndrome is a condition where your immune system produces antibodies, increasing the risk of abnormal blood clotting. This can lead to pregnancy complications like recurrent miscarriages, pre-eclampsia, and placental problems. The syndrome may also cause blood clots in veins or arteries, affecting both you and your baby. Early diagnosis, blood-thinning medications, and close monitoring can rule out the complications.In Celiac disease, an autoimmune condition, your immune system reacts to gluten, damaging your small intestine. This makes it harder for your body to absorb the nutrients needed for your baby’s growth and development during pregnancy.Untreated celiac disease may increase the risk of infertility, miscarriage, and low birth weight. Following a strict gluten-free diet before and during pregnancy helps your body absorb nutrients and supports a healthy pregnancy.Psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease
Psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition, causes red, scaly patches, while inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis affect the digestive tract. Both can worsen during pregnancy, sometimes needing changes in medication.Active disease increases the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and other complications. With careful planning and regular monitoring, you can manage symptoms and improve your pregnancy outcomes.Causes Of Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders occur when your immune system can’t tell the difference between healthy cells and harmful invaders. The exact cause is often unknown, but several factors can contribute.If you have a family member with an autoimmune disorder, your chances of developing one are higher. Certain genes make your immune system more likely to react abnormally, leading to autoimmune diseases. Genetics alone doesn’t mean you’ll develop a disorder, but it affects your risk. Knowing your family history helps you and your doctor spot early signs and take preventive steps.Hormonal changes, especially fluctuations in oestrogen and progesterone during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect your immune system. These changes may worsen existing conditions or trigger new autoimmune diseases.You are more likely to be affected, especially during your reproductive years, which suggests a strong link to hormones. However, by properly monitoring your symptoms, you can manage this condition. Autoimmune diseases can be triggered by viruses, chemicals, or certain medications. Infections may cause your immune system to mistakenly attack healthy tissues.Minimising exposure to known triggers-such as chemicals, toxins, or certain medications, may help reduce the risk of autoimmune disease, as these factors may alter immune function. Practising good hygiene and consulting your doctor about medication safety are also preventive measures.Physical trauma, surgery, or significant emotional stress can weaken your immune system’s balance, potentially triggering or worsening autoimmune disorders. Stress hormones may disrupt immune regulation, making flare-ups more likely. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and seeking support can help you maintain better control over your symptoms and overall health.Symptoms of Autoimmune Disorders
Depending on the organ or system involved, autoimmune disease symptoms could differ. Common indicators you could see are.- Fatigue
- Joint pain and swelling.
- Skin changes
- Digestive issues
- Fever
- Hair loss
- Unintended weight changes
Impact Of Autoimmune Disorders On Pregnancy
Autoimmune diseases can influence pregnancy in several ways. Knowing these consequences enables you to get ready and look for the appropriate treatment.Increased risk of miscarriage
You are at a higher risk of miscarriage if you have an autoimmune disorder because certain antibodies can attack the embryo or interfere with its implantation in the uterus. This immune response can disrupt early pregnancy development, making it difficult for the pregnancy to continue as expected.Autoimmune disorders can increase your chances of delivering your baby before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Inflammation, placental problems, or flare-ups of your condition may trigger early labour. Preterm birth can affect your baby’s growth and development, sometimes requiring special care after delivery.You may face an elevated risk of pre-eclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure and organ complications, if you have an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune activity can damage blood vessels or the placenta, leading to high blood pressure, protein in urine, and potential danger for both you and your baby.In some cases, autoimmune disorders can cause your immune system to target placental tissues, reducing blood flow and nutrient transfer to your baby. This may lead to placental insufficiency, where the placenta struggles to meet your baby’s needs, increasing the risk of complications such as growth restriction or preterm birth.Foetal growth restriction
Your baby may be smaller than the expected gestational size if you have an autoimmune disorder. This happens because placental dysfunction or inflammation limits the nutrients and oxygen reaching your baby, affecting growth and increasing the risk of health issues at birth.Certain antibodies from your autoimmune disorder can cross the placenta and enter your baby’s bloodstream. This may cause conditions such as neonatal lupus or thyroid problems after birth. Your baby might require special monitoring or treatment to manage complications in such cases.Treatment Of Autoimmune Disorders For a Healthy Pregnancy
A successful pregnancy depends on how you manage autoimmune diseases before and throughout your pregnancy. To ensure the health of both the mother and the newborn child, a proper treatment plan is essential. You may consider the following strategies:Methods to manage autoimmune disorders
Several ways can help you control the autoimmune disorders and keep your pregnancy healthy throughout. Preconception counselling
It’s best to plan your pregnancy when your condition is stable and symptoms are minimal.Always consider opting for frequent check-ups to track disease activity and adjust treatment as needed.Use pregnancy-safe medications to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups. However, make sure to consult your doctor before starting any new medication. Make sure to follow a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep to support overall health.Always consider practising relaxation techniques to minimise symptom triggers.Steps to support a healthier pregnancy
Follow the right steps to make things healthier for the baby while facing this disorder. Keep your autoimmune disorder in remission before conception and throughout pregnancy.Make sure to have an adequate intake of essential nutrients, especially if digestion or absorption is affected.Regular ultrasounds and growth checks to assess the baby’s well-being.Stay up-to-date with recommended vaccines to reduce infection risk.Work closely with obstetricians, rheumatologists, and other specialists for comprehensive management.Common Pregnancy Risks with Autoimmune Conditions
Pregnancy with autoimmune diseases can carry some risks. However, understanding these risks allows you to take the right steps and seek proper care, helping ensure a healthier pregnancy for you and your baby.- Miscarriage
- Preterm labour
- Pre-eclampsia
- Foetal growth restriction
- Neonatal lupus or thyroid issues
- Infections
How To Prevent Autoimmune Disorders?
Although not all autoimmune diseases are avoidable, several actions could lower your risk or postpone the start.- Consume a balanced diet high in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Avoid unneeded drugs, illnesses, and pollutants as well as exposure to them.
- Engage in yoga, meditation, or other relaxing activities.
- Managing symptoms early and detecting them can help avoid problems.
- Inform your healthcare expert if autoimmune disorders run in your family.
Autoimmune disorders can pose certain challenges during pregnancy, but with proper planning and management, you can enjoy a healthy and smooth journey throughout.It’s best to work on early diagnosis, counselling, and monitoring to deal with such disorders. Make sure to connect with your healthcare expert as and when needed. It helps you stay informed and makes it easy to navigate through the pregnancy journey with confidence.FAQs on Pregnancy and Autoimmune Disorders: All You Need To Know
- Can you have a healthy pregnancy if you have an autoimmune disorder?Yes, you can certainly have a healthy pregnancy if you are suffering from an autoimmune disorder. Many individuals with autoimmune diseases have successful pregnancies and children with good management, regular monitoring, and careful preparation.
- Should you stop taking your autoimmune medications when pregnant?It’s advised to consult a healthcare expert before changing or stopping your drugs. While certain drugs require modification or replacement for your and your baby's safety, others are safe in pregnancy.
Disclaimer: Medically approved by Approved by - Dr. Poonam Agarwal, Principal Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, Delhi
