Have you ever wondered about the link between autoimmune disease and miscarriage? Let's unravel the mysteries together!
Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system attacks its cells. In autoimmune disease, the immune system is defective. It cannot distinguish between foreign substances and the body's healthy cells.
Autoimmune disease can pose various risks to an individual’s health. Autoimmune diseases are more common in women. Almost 5 times more common than in men. These disorders most likely occur when women are pregnant. Hence, it is more common in pregnant women than in those who are not.
Hence, in pregnant women, autoimmune disease and miscarriage can be common. Hence, autoimmune diseases can pose a threat not only to you but also to your unborn child.
Now, let's explore how autoimmune diseases can influence the course of pregnancy!
Autoimmune diseases can affect pregnancy in various ways. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis may change during pregnancy. However, having an autoimmune disease can make it difficult to have a healthy pregnancy.
Sometimes, being pregnant can even lead to autoimmune disorders. The antibodies the mother's body produces might enter the fetus, posing a risk of autoimmune disease and miscarriage.
In a healthy pregnancy, the immune system recognizes it as favorable and protects the baby. But if the immune system isn't working properly, it might attack the embryo. That means it increases the risk of autoimmune disease and miscarriage. Understanding these connections is important for managing autoimmune-related challenges during pregnancy.
Discover the prevalent autoimmune culprit behind miscarriages!
How does an autoimmune disease lead to miscarriage?
Prioritize your health and schedule an appointment to understand how autoimmune diseases can contribute to miscarriage during pregnancy.
A healthy immune system knows that pregnancy is favorable, even when the embryo initially appears as an external particle. The embryo suppresses the activity of the immune system. This prevents it from attacking the baby. The embryo also affects the immune system in a way that protects the baby from external threats. But, if there are issues with the working of the immune system, all the above things do not happen. Consequently, the immune system can mistakenly attack the embryo, resulting in autoimmune disease and miscarriage.
What autoimmune diseases are most commonly linked to miscarriage?
UCTD or Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease, is an autoimmune disease. This is the most common autoimmune disease linked to miscarriage. Reports suggest UCTD affects 2.5% of pregnant women. Women with UCTD have a 9% to 21% chance of having a miscarriage.
Some other autoimmune diseases are also connected to an increased risk of miscarriage. These include:
- Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS): This condition raises the chances of blood clots. It leads to complications like recurrent miscarriage.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease, can heighten the risk of miscarriage, particularly in women with specific antibodies.
- Thyroid Autoimmune Disorders: Conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease can impact pregnancy; hence, managing thyroid levels is crucial.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): RA itself may not directly cause miscarriage. However, inflammation and certain treatments could affect pregnancy outcomes.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: This autoimmune condition, causing dry eyes and mouth, is linked to neonatal lupus, impacting the fetus.
Despite these risks, many women with autoimmune diseases can have successful pregnancies with proper management.
If you plan to conceive or are already pregnant with an autoimmune condition, connect with us for personalized insights.
Let's connect the dots between autoimmune diseases and miscarriage!
What is the Link Between Autoimmune Diseases and Miscarriage?
The link between the autoimmune disease and miscarriage depends on the immune system. If it can attack the embryo. In a healthy pregnancy, the immune system adapts to protect the embryo. But, in autoimmune conditions, this immune tolerance decreases. Autoimmune diseases cause conditions that increase the risk of miscarriage. These may include:
- Inflammation
- Antibodies targeting the fetus
- Hormonal imbalances
- Organ dysfunction
Spot the signs of an autoimmune-related miscarriage!
What Are the Symptoms of an Autoimmune-Related Miscarriage?
Symptoms of an autoimmune-related miscarriage may include:
- Unexplained vaginal bleeding or spotting can be a sign of a miscarriage.
- Abdominal pain or cramping in the lower abdomen may occur during a miscarriage.
- Passing tissue or clots from the vagina.
- A sudden decrease in pregnancy symptoms such as breast tenderness and morning sickness.
- Persistent back pain may be a symptom.
Discover the signs of an autoimmune-related miscarriage and regain control of your health. Reach out to us today for support and guidance!
Learn about the essential tests and the subsequent treatment options!
How is an Autoimmune-Related Miscarriage Diagnosed and Treated?
Diagnostic Tests for Autoimmune Miscarriage: The right diagnosis is important to determine the best treatment. Special tests, like checking for antiphospholipid antibodies and thyroid function, can help. They can determine if autoimmune factors are causing miscarriages.
Treatment options: Once doctors know what's causing the problem, they can make tailored treatment plans. This might include medications to suppress the immune system. Blood-thinning drugs are also considered. Keep a close eye on things during the pregnancy.
Can Women with Autoimmune Diseases Have Healthy Pregnancies?
Yes, women with autoimmune diseases can have healthy pregnancies. It requires careful planning and management. Collaborate with a healthcare team, including rheumatologists and obstetricians, if needed. Adjust medications, monitor risks, and maintain a holistic approach. All these contribute to successful pregnancies. Regular check-ups and postpartum care are crucial. This ensures both maternal and fetal well-being. At the same time, autoimmune disease and miscarriage are linked. Many women with autoimmune diseases experience positive outcomes with proper care and support.
Start your path to recovery with us today; prioritize your health and well-being by scheduling an appointment now.
Reference
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8439985/
