Autoimmune disorders

Autoimmune conditions are more common in women of childbearing age, and whilst some of these conditions improve in pregnancy others including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) may increase in severity and cause complications to the mother and her fetus. Women are advised to seek preconception care, as those without active disease at the time of conception are more likely to have an uncomplicated pregnancy. Complications for women with SLE and /or APS include an increased risk of pregnancy loss, hypertension and pre-eclampsia, venous thromboembolism, and sepsis. Careful midwifery assessment and referral to a specialist multi-disciplinary team is advocated.