For many women, the journey to motherhood can be challenging, especially when dealing with chronic conditions such as autoimmune disorders. If you're trying to conceive and have an autoimmune condition, you're not alone. 

Understanding the connection between autoimmune disorders and fertility is crucial for your reproductive health and future family planning.

What are autoimmune disorders?

Autoimmune disorders occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in your body. This can lead to a range of symptoms and complications, including fertility issues. Some common autoimmune disorders that can affect fertility include:

1. Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus)

   • This condition can affect various body parts, including the skin, joints, and organs.

2. Rheumatoid arthritis

   • An inflammatory disorder affecting the joints.

3. Thyroid disorders 

   • Such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease are conditions affecting the thyroid gland and its hormone production.

4. Antiphospholipid syndrome

   • A disorder that causes blood clots in arteries and veins.

5. Coeliac disease

   • An immune reaction to gluten that damages the small intestine.

6. Type 1 diabetes

   • A condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin.

7. Multiple sclerosis

   • A disease of the central nervous system that disrupts communication between the brain and body.

How do autoimmune disorders affect fertility?

Autoimmune disorders can impact fertility in several ways:

1. Hormonal imbalances

   • Some autoimmune conditions affect hormone-producing glands, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation problems. For example, Hashimoto's thyroiditis can cause hypothyroidism, which may lead to irregular periods and difficulty conceiving.

2. Inflammation

   • Chronic inflammation can interfere with egg quality, implantation, and embryo development. In rheumatoid arthritis, for instance, inflammation in the body may affect the uterine lining, making it less receptive to embryo implantation.

3. Antibody production

   • Certain auto-antibodies may attack reproductive tissues or embryos. For example, in antiphospholipid syndrome, antibodies can interfere with blood flow to the uterus and placenta, potentially causing recurrent miscarriages.

4. Medication side effects

   • Some treatments for autoimmune disorders can temporarily affect fertility. For instance, certain immunosuppressants used to treat lupus may impact ovarian function.

5. Increased risk of miscarriage

   • Women with autoimmune disorders may have a higher risk of pregnancy loss. This is particularly true for conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome and lupus.

Managing autoimmune disorders when trying to conceive

If you have an autoimmune disorder and are planning to start a family, consider these steps:

1. Consult with a specialist

Before trying to conceive, speak with a rheumatologist or fertility specialist. They can assess your condition and advise on the best approach for your situation.

Book an appointment with a specialist at Thomson Fertility Centre to discuss your autoimmune condition and pregnancy plans.

2. Achieve optimal health

Work with your healthcare team to get your autoimmune disorder under control before trying to conceive. This may involve:

• Adjusting medications: Your doctor might need to change your medications to ones that are safer for pregnancy. 

• Managing stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate autoimmune symptoms and affect fertility. 

• Following a balanced diet: An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids may help manage autoimmune symptoms and support fertility.

• Getting regular exercise: Moderate exercise as advised by your doctor can help manage autoimmune symptoms and improve overall health.

3. Consider preconception counselling

Preconception counselling at Thomson Fertility Centre can help you understand potential risks and prepare for a healthy pregnancy. This may include genetic counselling if your autoimmune condition has a hereditary component.

4. Monitor your menstrual cycle

Keep track of your menstrual cycle to identify your fertile window. Using ovulation prediction kits, tracking basal body temperature, or observing cervical mucus changes can help identify ovulation, especially if you have irregular cycles.

5. Explore fertility treatments

If you're having difficulty conceiving naturally, your doctor may recommend fertility treatments such as:

• Ovulation induction: Medications like Clomid or gonadotropins may be used to stimulate ovulation.

• Intrauterine insemination (IUI): This involves placing sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation.

• In vitro fertilisation (IVF): A process where eggs are fertilised outside the body and the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus.

Pregnancy with autoimmune disorders

If you become pregnant, you'll need close monitoring throughout your pregnancy. Your healthcare team may include an obstetrician specialising in high-risk pregnancies, a rheumatologist, and a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

Some autoimmune disorders may flare up during pregnancy, while others may improve. For example, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms often improve during pregnancy, while lupus may worsen. Your doctors will work together to manage your condition and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

Potential pregnancy complications

Women with autoimmune disorders may face a higher risk of certain pregnancy complications, including:

• Preeclampsia: High blood pressure with signs of organ damage

• Gestational diabetes: Diabetes developing during pregnancy

• Preterm birth: Birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy

• Intrauterine growth restriction: Slower-than-expected fetal growth

However, with proper care and monitoring, many women with autoimmune disorders have successful pregnancies and healthy babies.

Hope for the future

While autoimmune disorders can present challenges when trying to conceive, many women with these conditions successfully become mothers. With proper management and care, you can improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a fertility specialist at Thomson Medical.

Book an appointment with Thomson Medical today.

FAQ

Can women with autoimmune disorders have healthy pregnancies? 

Yes, with proper medical care and management, many women with autoimmune disorders can have healthy pregnancies and babies.

Will my autoimmune medication affect my fertility?

Some medicines can impact fertility. It's essential to discuss your medications with your doctor before trying to conceive.

Are there any specific dietary recommendations for fertility with autoimmune disorders?

An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial. Consult with a nutritionist for personalised advice.

How long should I wait to conceive after an autoimmune flare-up? 

This depends on your specific condition and severity. Your doctor can provide guidance based on your individual situation.

Can stress affect my autoimmune disorder and fertility?

Yes, stress can exacerbate autoimmune symptoms and impact fertility. Stress management techniques like meditation or yoga may be helpful.

Remember, every woman's journey is unique. With the right support and care, many women with autoimmune disorders successfully navigate pregnancy and motherhood. Don't let an autoimmune disorder hold you back from starting a family. Book a consultation with Thomson Medical's fertility experts to discuss your options.