Women diagnosed with systemic sclerosis face significantly elevated risks during pregnancy and a greater likelihood of reproductive hormone imbalances. A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis covering 27 studies confirms these adverse health outcomes require immediate clinical attention.
Patients exhibited distinct hormonal profiles compared to healthy controls, including elevated prolactin, luteinizing hormone, and oestradiol alongside lower testosterone levels. These biological markers correlate with broader reproductive challenges inherent to this rare chronic autoimmune disease.
Obstetric data indicates a heightened risk for caesarean sections, intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight, and preterm birth. Additionally, women reported lower total sexual function scores and a higher prevalence of sexual dysfunction, compounding the physical burden of the condition.
Approximately half of all systemic sclerosis diagnoses occur during reproductive years. Clinical outcomes are frequently complicated by necessary immunosuppressant therapies and the extent of vascular impairment or organ fibrosis caused by immune dysregulation.
Researchers emphasize the urgent need for standardized interventions targeting female reproductive health. Integrating specialized reproductive management into standard systemic sclerosis care protocols is now considered essential for improving patient safety and quality of life.