Pregnancy, postpartum, and lupus

The arrival of Dr Stephanie Frades' new bundle of Joy, Francesco (Frankie)

If you have been wondering why Dr Stephanie Frade has not been able to take on any new clients for Exercise, here is why...

We are thrilled to welcome Francesco (Frankie) into the world! Born on the 24th of September 2024, at 8:33 pm, weighing 2.8 kg and measuring 48 cm, Frankie has already brought immense joy to his family. Mum (Stephanie), dad (Andrew) and baby (Frankie) are all doing well as they settle into this exciting new chapter. Congratulations to the family on their beautiful new arrival!

Stephanie, who lives with the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), shares her personal insights into the unique challenges and experiences of pregnancy and postpartum life while managing a chronic illness.

Living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) brings unique challenges, and these become even more pronounced during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The journey of adjusting to life with a newborn while managing a chronic autoimmune disease requires meticulous care, ongoing monitoring, and resilience.

Pregnancy in women with SLE, and scleroderma, is considered high-risk due to potential complications such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, and lupus flares. Being seen in a specialized high-risk pregnancy clinic, such as the one at the Royal Hospital for Women Randwick where Stephanie was seen, ensures that both mother and baby are carefully monitored throughout the pregnancy. Here, a multidisciplinary team of midwives, obstetricians, and medical physicians who specialise in chronic disease during pregnancy, collaborate to manage the intricacies of autoimmune disease in pregnancy. Regular ultrasounds, close surveillance of disease activity, and adjustments to medication regimens are central to this care. Stephanie was provided with wonderful care here at the RHW and was able to feel confident in her pregnancy journey knowing that she and her baby were well looked after. She continued to take her usual medication hydroxychloroquine and was also prescribed aspirin as a preventive measure to preeclampsia.

The postpartum period, while filled with the joys of new motherhood, can be particularly challenging for women with SLE. The body undergoes significant physiological changes after childbirth, and this period is often a vulnerable time for lupus flares. Keeping on top of symptoms during this time requires continued vigilance. Fatigue, joint pain, and inflammation can be exacerbated by the physical demands of caring for a newborn, which can make it difficult to distinguish between typical postpartum fatigue and a lupus flare. Regular follow-ups with the healthcare team, along with routine blood work, can help detect any signs of disease activity early.

Managing postpartum lupus requires a delicate balance between taking care of oneself and attending to the needs of a newborn. Sleep, although elusive for new parents, is critical for controlling lupus symptoms. Adequate rest, a nutrient-rich diet, balanced physical activity (once medically advised), and adhering to prescribed medications are crucial for keeping lupus in check. Moreover, the emotional toll of adjusting to new motherhood, combined with a chronic illness, can increase stress levels, potentially triggering flares. Seeking support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can help lighten the load.

While the journey of pregnancy and the postpartum period with SLE is undoubtedly challenging, with the right medical support and self-care, many women manage to thrive, embracing both the challenges and the rewards of motherhood. Stephanie has immediately fallen in love with Francesco and has taken to motherhood naturally.