Description
In this comprehensive presentation, Dr. Lisa Sammaritano discusses the intricate relationship between reproductive health and lupus, emphasizing the critical importance of integrating reproductive health care into the management of patients with systemic lupus. She reflects on a landmark guideline that was the first by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) to focus on reproductive health for patients with rheumatic diseases, containing 131 graded recommendations to enhance patient care in areas including pregnancy, contraception, and fertility preservation. Dr. Sammaritano systematically outlines key points such as the importance of pre-pregnancy counseling, safe contraception, and preventing unplanned pregnancies, particularly in patients with active lupus. She highlights the need for tailored planning and individual assessments regarding fertility, pregnancy, and potential complications from related health issues, such as lupus nephritis and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
Throughout her discussion, she shares findings from important studies that illustrate the risks associated with lupus pregnancies, the effect of existing medications on pregnancy outcomes, and the unique challenges women face in managing their health conditions while considering family planning. She makes a case for using Long Acting Reversible Contraceptive (LARC) methods to more effectively manage unintended pregnancies among lupus patients. Furthermore, she discusses the role of IVF and oocyte cryopreservation, addressing age-related fertility challenges and affirming the advancements in reproductive technologies that enhance success rates for divorce afflicted women with lupus. Ultimately, Dr. Sammaritano emphasizes the need for continuous research into reproductive health issues concerning lupus while advocating for more robust data to inform clinical practice.
Part of: Surgical Techniques and Training Collection
"Reproductive Health" is included in the following Surgical Techniques and Training playlist: