Pregnant with unmanaged autoimmune disease
I've been on a tough journey to diagnose a possible autoimmune disease (I think i have lupus or something that causes similar symptoms) and recently found out i was pregnant even though we were using protection. It's been a huge shock and I'm terrified about how I'll manage the pregnancy when I'm trying to figure out my health issues.
Has anyone had a successful pregnancy while having an unmanaged autoimmune disease? How did you manage it on your own? Did you change your diet to help with symptoms? my ob says I'll most likely be considered high risk because of it and that scares me just as much.. the risks could be blood clots, pre-eclampsia, preterm labor, and growth restriction. I'm only 5 weeks right now so i have some time to figure things out but I need some reassurance right now..
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Wanted to mention I'm also high risk. Also, starting at 12 weeks, you can take baby aspirin daily to reduce risk of pre-eclampsia.
@Jaquelyn thankfully, my ob is already keeping a close eye on me because of the possible autoimmune issues and a 4cm cyst i have in my ovary. I felt terrible last pregnancy and am already in some pain so I'm scared what it'll mean as I grow bigger. I was so sick my entire last pregnancy, my son and I got a cold like every 3 months that destroyed me. 😩 Do you have a good prenatal you recommend? I haven't gotten on one yet because a lot was very up in the air, I've sucked at taking prenatals in the past but want to be a lot better this time. Thank you for responding!
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I manage my Hashimoto's, but I have had unknown liver issues for the last 3 years. The OB should keep a close eye on anything that will matter for the pregnancy, but I would definitely have progesterone levels checked and get on a good quality prenatal with good folate. The good news is that pregnancy suppresses your immune system. Because of this, many women with autoimmune conditions find reduced symptoms since the immune system is suppressed. Pregnancy also has a funny way of promoting healing in certain organs, etc. I ended up with Cholestasis last pregnancy, but everything turned out great. This 2nd pregnancy has been a bit harder, but so far no issues with the baby. Hoping for the best- hang in there!