Autoimmune Diseases and Conception: Expert Insights for Future Parents

Key Takeaways

• Autoimmune diseases can negatively impact fertility in women and men. They disrupt hormonal balance, egg quality, and sperm function as well so it is really important to know how these conditions impact reproductive health.
• An early diagnosis and consistent health checkups can better keep the autoimmune disease under control, leading to better health and fertility.
• Planning ahead of conception will help ensure optimal conception and pregnancy. If you get proactive by reviewing medications and aiming for disease remission, you can dramatically improve your chances!
• Working with a team of healthcare specialists and maintaining open communication ensures comprehensive, coordinated care throughout the fertility and pregnancy journey.
• Making healthy lifestyle choices—eating a well-rounded diet, managing stress, practicing moderate physical activity, and steering clear of environmental toxins—will help nourish the immune system and reproductive system alike.
• If you are struggling to conceive, get early advice from experts in fertility. They can help ensure you get personalized solutions and help you get the best chances for achieving positive outcomes.

Autoimmune infertility has been studied mostly in women. They trigger the immune system to destroy healthy cells and tissues, in some cases including those needed to conceive. Fertility is an issue for many Americans.

These problems may contribute to increased difficulties with conception. However, with proper care, most couples can achieve a healthy and happy pregnancy! Medical experts suggest tracking symptoms, working closely with a reproductive endocrinologist, and making sure any treatment plans are safe for both conception and long-term health.

By raising awareness of the connection between autoimmune disease and fertility, we can empower individuals to make informed decisions regarding family planning. In the following section, we provide expert advice along with practical steps you can take if you’re looking to have a baby.

What Are Autoimmune Diseases?

Autoimmune diseases are a group of complex diseases in which the immune system begins attacking normal, healthy cells. The autoimmune condition is brought on when the immune system, designed to protect the body from infection, confuses itself and begins assaulting healthy tissue. This may take on different forms and affect almost any organ system.

In turn, the symptoms and impact can vary widely between people. In the U.S., these diseases affect an estimated 23.5 million Americans, and more than 100 different autoimmune diseases have been identified. These problems frequently present in females. This is particularly concerning for people in their 30s who may wish to have children.

These health problems can profoundly impact an individual’s quality of life. They can even change the way our bodies work in profound ways.

Your Body’s Defense System

Your body’s defense system is crucial for maintaining health. Picture this—the immune system is the body’s police force. When it functions properly, your immune system defends against disease-causing invaders and assists with recovery.

There are times when the system goes haywire and turns on the body’s own tissues, mistaking them for enemies. Here’s how that causes autoimmune diseases. Knowing how the immune system works is key for doctors and patients to handle these conditions and help limit damage.

Common Autoimmune Conditions

Most are familiar with household names like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Then there’s Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes, and antiphospholipid syndrome. Each one attacks the body differently.

Lupus can affect the skin, joints, and organs. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the more common autoimmune diseases and usually causes pain and swelling in joints. Type 1 diabetes specifically destroys the cells in the pancreas that make insulin.

Symptoms may be difficult to identify and vary from fatigue and joint swelling to skin lesions and other symptoms.

Why Early Diagnosis Helps

Diagnosing these diseases early on can significantly impact patients. Faster diagnosis leads to earlier treatment, which can prevent or delay complications and allow individuals to live healthier lives.

It further reduces the risk of pregnancy complications. Routine physicals and preventative health screenings are a no-brainer for everyone – especially those at increased risk.

Autoimmune Impact on Fertility

Autoimmune diseases are known to have an impact on nearly every system of the body. Most people are unaware of their discreet effect on fertility until they are unable to conceive. For the United States, these conditions typically manifest during years of greatest reproductive potential, particularly for females. In such instances, the very immune system, which should be there to protect, begins to attack healthy tissues.

This can disrupt the body’s natural homeostasis and leave women with autoimmune disease struggling to start a family.

1. How Autoimmunity Affects Conception

Autoantibodies are proteins produced by the body’s immune system. They can prevent fertilization or otherwise make it difficult for a fertilized embryo to implant. Studies have found associations with increased immune activity and decreased rates of reproductive success.

By monitoring immune markers throughout the conception process, clinicians are able to identify potential risks earlier and provide more informed care.

2. Specific Diseases & Fertility Risks

Amongst the many autoimmune diseases, lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis are particularly notorious for posing greater reproductive challenges. For instance, approximately one-third of women with lupus will have a preterm delivery.

APS increases miscarriage rates and decreases pregnancy outcomes predictability. Every disease requires the unique and individualized treatment plan to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

3. Ovarian Reserve Challenges

Autoimmune attacks can reduce the ovarian reserve, or the number of healthy eggs available. This has implications for the success rates of fertility treatments. Ovarian reserve challenges for women with these conditions, testing ovarian function becomes crucial, providing guidance on how to proceed next.

4. Male Fertility Considerations

According to studies, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis further decrease sperm quality and count. Men experiencing fertility challenges must be tested as well to determine the cause of their infertility and select the most effective course of action.

5. Understanding Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances Autoimmune diseases can wreak havoc on hormone levels, disrupting cycles or even halting ovulation entirely. Hormones are what help your whole reproduction system work in sync.

Treating these imbalances is a major component of assisting couples with conception.

Pre-Conception Planning Is Key

Pre-conception planning is an important first step for those with autoimmune diseases looking to expand their family. Smart and thorough preparation can identify potential health issues before conception, reducing risks for parent and child. It offers the greatest likelihood of an easier journey to conception.

This is critically important, as women with autoimmune disorders have a 20 to 30 percent increased risk of miscarriage. Here’s why pre-conception planning isn’t just a nice bonus, but truly necessary.

Time Your Conception Journey

Understanding ovulation helps individuals identify their fertile window and time intercourse for when the chances of conception are greatest. This is especially important for women with autoimmune thyroid disease, of whom up to 30% have difficulty conceiving.

Ovulation test kits or fertility tracking apps can simplify this process. With health challenges, it can be even more daunting to understand that conception takes time. Practicing patience and maintaining achievable expectations are great ways to reduce anxiety.

Review Medications With Specialists

The majority of autoimmune medications have reproductive implications and/or are contraindicated in pregnancy. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to have proactive conversations with medical providers whenever you are prescribed medication, take OTC medications, or supplements.

Other medications require a change or discontinuation prior to pregnancy. Having regular, thorough check-ins with a rheumatologist, OB-GYN or endocrinologist can ensure safe treatments for both parent and baby.

Aim for Disease Remission

Getting autoimmune diseases, like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, into remission before pregnancy boosts the chances for success and lowers problems. Favorable outcomes are generally associated with fewer flares in pregnancy.

Regular exercise, at least 150 minutes weekly, diet adjustments and stress management can go a long way in reducing the symptoms.

Schedule Pre-Pregnancy Check-ups

A complete physical health check can identify potential problems such as high blood sugar or symptoms of preeclampsia in advance. This becomes even more crucial if you’re considering conceiving a child!

Personalized care plans tailored to individual needs, such as for people with type 1 diabetes, reduce risk. With the right support, a lot of women with autoimmune diseases can have healthy pregnancies.

Managing Autoimmune Disease During Pregnancy

Autoimmunity increases the complexity of pregnancy. With careful management, women are able to make the best choices and reach the best outcomes for themselves and their babies. During pregnancy, most autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, need to be closely monitored.

You have to be willing to modify your care at every phase of pregnancy. You have to monitor symptoms closely and tailor medication to your needs. Work with an interdisciplinary team of health care professionals who understand the unique risks and needs of pregnant women living with these conditions.

Monitor Disease Activity Closely

Having regular, consistent care is crucial when managing an autoimmune disease during pregnancy. We know that disease activity can ebb and flow during pregnancy. Any flare-ups can come with risks of preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, or even maternal preeclampsia.

For instance, women with rheumatoid arthritis encounter increased incidences of hypertensive complications as high as 10%. They can develop fetal growth restriction at rates of 20%. Being proactive to any changes in symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, or fatigue can help diagnose and address problems sooner.

Safe Medications in Pregnancy

Not all treatments are pregnancy-safe. Others, such as methotrexate and mycophenolate mofetil, need to be discontinued far in advance of conception. Educating providers and advocating for switching to safer alternatives is essential.

Every plan has to be appropriate for the individual person, taking into account the risks and benefits to both mom and baby. For those with lupus, specialists advise conceiving only after 6–12 months of low disease activity or absence of symptoms.

Navigating Potential Complications

Chronic pain Many women with autoimmune diseases are already at a higher risk. Among these risks are preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, and increased length of stay—in particular patients with myasthenia gravis.

Fortunately, early screening with first-trimester preeclampsia checks and initiation of low-dose aspirin can reduce these risks. Having an idea of what to expect allows women to respond immediately if something does not seem right.

Prioritize Your Emotional Health

Living with a chronic illness during a time of immense change can heavily impact mental health. Counseling, support groups, and other types of social support are effective in helping people cope with stress and anxiety.

Although physical care is crucial, emotional support matters too—don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Lifestyle Choices for Better Outcomes

Lifestyle has a major impact on both improving autoimmune diseases and increasing fertility. Making these healthy choices may help to manage flares, reduce inflammation and create the healthiest environment for her journey to pregnancy.

As those with autoimmune disorders know, a one-size-fits-all approach is almost never successful. After all, plans need to accommodate each individual’s specific needs and cultural history. This requires exploring a person’s nutrition, psychosocial stress, physical activity, and possibly their environment or ZIP code.

Prioritizing care for your mind, body, and spirit increases your likelihood of experiencing a healthy pregnancy. This is particularly critical for women with autoimmune disorders, who are at a 20% to 30% increased risk of miscarriage.

Nutrition for Fertility Support

Eating a healthy diet has been shown to help. A diet loaded with leafy greens, berries, whole grains, nuts, lean proteins, and fatty fish gives the body the tools it needs. These foods reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance.

Staying hydrated is important as well, as it’s critical in helping every bodily system function optimally. Eating more whole foods and cutting back on highly processed snacks, fast food and sugary drinks reduces the body’s inflammatory response.

For those with autoimmune diseases, small changes like swapping white bread for whole grain or adding a handful of walnuts can pay off.

Effective Stress Management Tips

We all know stress is hard on the body, but it’s especially detrimental for those suffering from autoimmune symptoms. Techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, or even taking a brief walk can reduce stress.

Since stress can postpone ovulation and throw hormones out of whack, it’s important to find what helps—be it yoga, journaling, or simply unplugging for a while. Finding time for these relaxing, productive habits every day helps nurture mental and physical health.

Gentle Exercise Benefits

The key is moving enough, but not too much. 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week is a good goal. Walking, stretching, or gentle yoga improves stress relief, energy levels, and immune function.

Rest days are important – even more so for those with chronic symptoms.

Avoid Environmental Triggers

Harsh irritants, such as potent solvents, tobacco smoke, or severe ambient air pollution, may precipitate autoimmune flares. Installing air filters, choosing natural cleaning products, and staying away from secondhand smoke all reduce exposure.

Creating a clean, calm home or work environment pairs well with better health and improved fertility.

Navigating Your Healthcare Team

Approaching fertility while managing an autoimmune disease typically requires a team of healthcare providers. Each specialist has a unique skill set. For instance, an academic rheumatologist can help manage autoimmune symptoms, an endocrinologist can closely monitor hormone health, and an obstetrician can provide guidance on reproductive planning.

Clear, steady communication between these physicians is critical. It goes a long way when all members of the team are aware of the medications, treatments and clinical goals being discussed. This method ensures that care is both well coordinated and specifically tailored to what matters most to you.

Build Your Support Network

A healthy care team and support system is essential. Friends and family, as well as local organizations, are sources of both emotional and practical support. This may look like transportation to and from appointments, assistance with day-to-day activities, or simply someone to hear them out.

Those conversations can go a long way, and many individuals with autoimmune disorders and fertility challenges take solace in speaking with peers who understand their journey. Community groups, social media groups, and advocacy organizations are great resources to meet others on the same journey.

Ensure Specialist Collaboration

We know that getting care from multiple doctors can be a challenge. It goes a long way when your specialists communicate and coordinate with one another, sharing your treatment plans. For instance, if you take medication for lupus or thyroid disease, your reproductive team needs to be aware.

With this level of teamwork, your care can be safer, more effective, and responsive to your evolving health needs.

When to See Fertility Expert

If you’re having trouble conceiving for more than a few months, get assistance sooner than later. If you have an inkling of irregular cycles, you should probably see a fertility expert. The earlier you start seeing these experts, the earlier they can identify potential challenges and the more options you will have.

These professionals can provide personalized, focused tests and treatments tailored to your unique medical history.

Advocate for Your Needs

Remember, you always know your body best. Don’t be afraid to speak up about your concerns, ask questions, and share your personal goals. Take notes in appointments, and feel free to ask for second opinions.

Being proactive and engaged results in better quality of care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can autoimmune diseases affect my ability to get pregnant?

Yes. How autoimmune disease affects fertility Some autoimmune diseases may contribute to increased difficulty conceiving. They can interfere with hormone levels, ovulation, or the lining of the uterus. There are some risks, but early planning and working with your doctor can minimize them.

Should I see a specialist before trying to conceive?

Yes, yes, yes, yes, YES. Reproductive endocrinologist or maternal-fetal medicine subspecialist of OB/GYN preferred. They should work with you to develop a plan that is safe and effective, taking into account your specific autoimmune condition.

Can my medications for autoimmune disease harm my fertility?

Other medications that you may not consider harmful to fertility or pregnancy. Never discontinue or substitute any treatment without consulting your physician first. They’ll be able to recommend safer alternatives if you’re planning to try for a baby.

Is pregnancy riskier with autoimmune diseases?

Is pregnancy riskier with autoimmune diseases. Risks may consist of increased flare-ups or higher risk of pregnancy complications. With consistent care and appointments with your healthcare team, these risks can be mitigated.

What lifestyle changes can improve my chances of conceiving?

Eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, effectively managing stress, and quitting smoking are all beneficial. Better control of your autoimmune disease is associated with improved fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

How can I find the right healthcare team in Los Angeles?

Seek out your reproductive team Board-certified specialists in reproductive medicine and rheumatology are your best line of defense. UCLA Health, Cedars-Sinai, and USC provide world-class care for autoimmune diseases and fertility concerns.

Will my autoimmune disease affect my baby?

Most babies born to mothers with autoimmune diseases are perfectly healthy, though some diseases may increase specific risks. With close monitoring and personalized care plans, you can protect yourself and your growing baby during pregnancy.