Scleroderma

In an ideal world, men and women would be able to start their families with no difficulties or problems.  However, there are many issues that can complicate matters and Scleroderma and Pregnancy is one of those issues.

It is very important to consult your medical team if you are contemplating a Scleroderma pregnancy, since medications may need to be adjusted beforehand, and specific risk issues can be addressed.

Many systemic scleroderma patients are able to successfully bear children, however it is always considered a "high risk" pregnancy and extra monitoring and precautions are necessary, both before and during pregnancy.

Common sense must prevail, of course. Patients with rapid onset or severe internal organ involvement may need to postpone pregnancy until the symptoms abate or toxic treatments are completed. Depending on the situation, a few people may still be advised to forego pregnancy plans altogether, or to select another route to parenthood (such as adoption or surrogate parenthood).

This information on pregnancy applies only to systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) — such as diffuse, limited, CREST, and overlap — and not to localized forms, such as linear or morphea.

Source: Jane (2011), "Scleroderma And Pregnancy"; Let's Talk Pregnancy. View the full article online here.