Managing puerperium in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases: an update

Introduction Puerperium is a critical period for patients affected by autoimmune rheumatic diseases for the risk of disease's flares and difficulties in treating lactating mothers. We want to summarize the literature data about psychological and pharmacological management of these patients and possible risk factors of disease's flares. Areas covered We made a narrative review on recent studies about puerperium in rheumatic autoimmune diseases patients. Expert opinion The physicians involved in management of patients during puerperium and in the follow-up of babies need to agree on maternal treatment because they need to reassure mothers about the safety of the prescribed medications. Furthermore, women with rheumatic diseases could present some musculoskeletal limitations and psychological problems, such as postpartum depression, which can lead to a sense of inadequacy to the mother's task. Families and physicians should be aware of these possible complications and support the new mothers providing correct counseling and practical help.

Automated summary

This article summarizes the recent research on the psychological and pharmacological management of patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases during puerperium, as well as the possible risk factors for disease flares. Physicians involved in the management of patients during puerperium and in the follow-up of babies need to agree on maternal treatment to assure mothers about the safety of prescribed medications. Furthermore, women with rheumatic diseases may experience musculoskeletal limitations and psychological problems, such as postpartum depression, which can affect their ability to fulfill their maternal tasks. Families and physicians should be aware of these possible complications and provide proper counseling and practical help to support new mothers.