Anyone with autoimmune issues?

I love how every day I find a new thing to worry about...

I have some slight autoimmune issues (low complement proteins and elevated ANA) but I don't really have an official diagnosis. Now I'm worried this could affect the pregnancy.

Anyone go through this?

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

Did they put you on prednisone?

I couldn't actually get pregnant because of my autoimmune issues, they kept me on prednisone until about 14 weeks then took me off.

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

I have autoimmune issues and have actually felt better pregnant than I have in years. My dr. thinks it is because of the natural immune suppression that occurs during pregnancy to avoid your body attacking the baby. I am pretty nervous to see what happens when the little guy comes, but enjoying a few well-feeling months.


Getting pregnant, on the other hand, was a whole different story.

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

Yes..I have had hypothyroidism for years and once my levels were good I felt GREAT! 5 months pp I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and I am always worried. I already met with my perinatologist and we have a plan. I quit all my meds for RA but still take 5mg pred for the inflammation. I have routine blood work done also. Talk to your docs and do some research. I also suggest a perinatologist you can talk to and another GREAT source of knowledge for us is my DD's pediatrician. She is amazing.

My docs told me my biggest hurdle was conceiving and my "condition" would not effect the baby.

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

I have autoimmune issues and both my OB and my PCP felt it best for me to stay on my medication during pregnancy. I've had a few mild flares, mainly in the beginning, but feel really great now. I'm worried about a flare post-pregnancy though because I heard those can be more common...

my OB said most people with autoimmune issues actually do great during pregnancy because your body's immune system scales back during pregnancy

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

me! all symptoms disappear when i'm pg. I had some really bad flares after DS1 was born though.

(I get hives and facial swelling out of nowhere- and same as you, they have no diagnosis for me.)

eta: no issues getting pg or keeping a pregnancy.

Message edited 4/14/2011 1:12:24 PM.

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

I have ITP, its an autoimmune disease that can cause hemoragging. Basically a lack of clotting. I see my hematologist and primary Dr regularly to monitor my #s.

Re: Anyone with autoimmune issues?

i have lupus. was like i didn't have it while i was pregnant, and now 6 months pp having a flare :O( felt the best that i've felt in years while pregnant.