#472: Lupus in Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks Without the Fear

#472: Lupus in Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks Without the Fear

July 1, 2026 · 1h 15m · Episode 472

About this episode

The episode discusses the implications of systemic lupus erythematosus in pregnancy, focusing on risks and the importance of individualized care.

In this episode of Birthing Instincts, Blyss and Stu take a deep dive into systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in pregnancy. Together they explore what lupus is, how it affects pregnancy, and what current evidence says about risks such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, stillbirth, and congenital heart block. Along the way, Stu revisits the decades-old Hadlock fetal growth curve and questions whether a single growth standard can accurately reflect diverse populations around the world. The conversation highlights the importance of individualized care, informed decision-making, and understanding risk without defaulting to fear-based management. References: Instagram Live with @Kristen_Nagle Reclaiming Birth Gathering: reclaimingbirthconference.com Made For Birth Podcast: Questioning The Standard of Maternity Care Discussed in This Episode • What systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is and how it affects pregnancy • Lupus flares, remission, and preconception planning • Preeclampsia risk in women with lupus • Hydroxychloroquine safety and use during pregnancy • Antiphospholipid antibodies and pregnancy outcomes • How lupus and preeclampsia can look similar • The…

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