**Pregnancy and Autoimmunity: What You Need to Know**
Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body. They can affect many different organs and tissues, including your skin, joints, muscles, and organs.
If you have an autoimmune disease, you may be wondering how it will affect your pregnancy. The good news is that most women with autoimmune diseases can have healthy pregnancies. However, there are some things you need to keep in mind.
**How Autoimmune Diseases Can Affect Pregnancy**
Autoimmune diseases can affect pregnancy in a number of ways. For example, they can:
* Increase your risk of miscarriage
* Cause premature birth
* Lead to low birth weight
* Cause birth defects
The risk of these complications depends on the type of autoimmune disease you have and how severe it is. If you have a mild autoimmune disease, you may not have any problems during pregnancy. However, if you have a more severe autoimmune disease, you may need to take medication to control it during pregnancy.
**Medications for Autoimmune Diseases During Pregnancy**
Many medications for autoimmune diseases are safe to take during pregnancy. However, some medications can cause birth defects. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking any medication during pregnancy.
**Lifestyle Changes for Autoimmune Diseases During Pregnancy**
In addition to medication, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to help manage your autoimmune disease during pregnancy. These changes include:
* Getting enough rest
* Eating a healthy diet
* Exercising regularly
* Avoiding stress
* Getting regular prenatal care
By following these tips, you can help reduce your risk of complications during pregnancy and give your baby the best possible start in life.
**Here are some additional tips for women with autoimmune diseases who are planning to become pregnant:**
* See your doctor before you conceive. Your doctor can help you manage your autoimmune disease and reduce your risk of complications during pregnancy.
* Take a prenatal vitamin. Prenatal vitamins contain important nutrients that are essential for a healthy pregnancy.
* Get vaccinated. Vaccinations can help protect you and your baby from serious diseases.
* Avoid alcohol and smoking. Alcohol and smoking can increase your risk of complications during pregnancy.
**If you have an autoimmune disease, it is important to talk to your doctor about how it may affect your pregnancy. With proper care, you can have a healthy pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby.**.
