Yes. In most instances, women with lupus can safely become pregnant and deliver a full-term, healthy infant. Furthermore, babies born to women with lupus have no greater chance of birth defects than to women without lupus.
The key is a carefully planned pregnancy and proper medical care. Lupus should be in remission for at least six months prior to conception, as active lupus could result in miscarriage or other serious complications (10 percent of lupus pregnancies end in miscarriage; 30 percent result in premature birth). Note, too, that a vaginal birth may not be possible. Above all, make sure your obstetrician is experienced in managing high-risk pregnancies. If possible, find an OB who has experience treating patients with lupus. Also, the hospital where you plan to deliver your baby should be prepared to treat high-risk births and able to provide you with the specialized care you may need.
Source: Lupus: A Patient Care Guide for Nurses and Other Health Professionals, 3rd Edition, Patient Information Sheet #11, Pregnancy and Lupus. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. September 2006.
