[Contraception and pregnancy in severe systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report]

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) during pregnancy may cause serious complications in the mother and fetus. We report a case of pregnancy in 23 years old woman with SLE. Pregnancy was complicated with spontaneous abortion and septic shock. Furthermore in our paper we discussed contraceptive methods proper for women with SLE. The choice of an optimal contraceptive method (OC) therapy is a significant problem in female SLE patients. In view of the influence of sex hormones on the evolution of SLE, oral contraceptive (OC) therapy has to be efficient, reversible and safe, without aggravating disease activity and causing metabolic and vascular side effects. As regards oral contraceptives, all authors agree that oestrogen-progestin combination pills are harmful, but the best alternative hormonal contraception remains to be determined. The management of the case and the review of current literature are presented. Our experience demonstrates the importance of interdisciplinary care.