Assisted Reproductive Techniques in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases

Autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs), such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and antiphospholipid syndrome, predominantly affect women of reproductive age. Advances in disease-modifying therapies and multidisciplinary care have improved fertility potential and enabled safer pregnancy outcomes in these patients. However, individuals with AIRDs often face reproductive challenges due to active disease, gonadotoxic treatments, and medication-related teratogenicity. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) provide critical opportunities for conception, but require an individualized approach that considers immune status, thrombosis risk, and potential disease flares. For ART to succeed and maximize maternal and fetal safety, several aspects, including optimal timing, disease activity management, stimulation protocols, and post-ART follow-up, are crucial.