Critical Care Obstetrics and Gynecology

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Pregnancy in Ireland: Complex yet Manageable

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disease that predominately affects women (90%) during their childbearing years. Pregnancy complications in women with SLE exceed that of the general population. Women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have fewer children on average than other women. This research aimed to analyse the perspectives of individuals with SLE in Ireland towards pregnancy.

Methods: The research involved 23 semi-structured interviews with participants from Lupus groups in Ireland using multiple case study analysis.

Results: Two key findings emerged in the qualitative interviews: reluctance towards becoming pregnant, and not conceiving again post-diagnosis.

Conclusions: This paper through analysis of qualitative findings highlights the need for psychosocial education and awareness in the clinical management of SLE and pregnancy. Patient counselling should be available for all possible issues that may arise both for the individual with SLE (risk of disease flares and pregnancy complications) and the foetus (risk of neonatal lupus syndromes and learning difficulties). There is a necessity for education on optimal disease control with safe medications during pregnancy.

Author(s):

Carol Barton-Ellis

Abstract | Full-Text | PDF

Share this