#472: Lupus in Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks Without the Fear

2026-07-01

Download

In this episode of Birthing Instincts, Blyss and Stu take a deep dive into systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in pregnancy.Together they explore what lupus is, how it affects pregnancy, and what current evidence says about risks such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, stillbirth, and congenital heart block. Along the way, Stu revisits the decades-old Hadlock fetal growth curve and questions whether a single growth standard can accurately reflect diverse populations around the world. The conversation highlights the importance of individualized ...

In this episode of Birthing Instincts, Blyss and Stu take a deep dive into systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in pregnancy.

Together they explore what lupus is, how it affects pregnancy, and what current evidence says about risks such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, stillbirth, and congenital heart block.

Along the way, Stu revisits the decades-old Hadlock fetal growth curve and questions whether a single growth standard can accurately reflect diverse populations around the world. The conversation highlights the importance of individualized care, informed decision-making, and understanding risk without defaulting to fear-based management.

References:

Instagram Live with @Kristen_Nagle

Reclaiming Birth Gathering: reclaimingbirthconference.com

Made For Birth Podcast: Questioning The Standard of Maternity Care

Discussed in This Episode

• What systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is and how it affects pregnancy

• Lupus flares, remission, and preconception planning

• Preeclampsia risk in women with lupus

• Hydroxychloroquine safety and use during pregnancy

• Antiphospholipid antibodies and pregnancy outcomes

• How lupus and preeclampsia can look similar

• The limitations of the Hadlock fetal growth curve

• Population differences in fetal growth and birth weight

• Why individualized care matters more than blanket recommendations

Podcast Produced by: Raquel Hernandez, Pride and Joy Doula Care

This show is supported by

LMNT | Got to drinklmnt.com/birthinginstincts to get a free sample pack with any order
Christian Hypnobirthing | Go to christianhypnobirthing.com and use the code BI50 for 50% off the first three months of your monthly subscription.
Restorative Roots | Go to restorativeroots.com and use code BIRTHINGINSTINCTS to get $20 off
Girls Who Know | Go to girlswhoknow.com and use code INSTINCTS for 15% off

Connect with Dr. Stu and Blyss