Rheumatologists’ knowledge of contraception, teratogens, and pregnancy risks

Abstract

Introduction Rheumatologists are essential partners in planning and managing pregnancies in women with lupus. Whether they know the essentials of contraceptive and medical treatment in pregnancy, however, is unknown. Method Anonymous in-lecture surveys were completed by 270 rheumatologists to assess knowledge of contraceptive effectiveness, emergency contraception, medication teratogenicity, and lupus pregnancy risk assessment. Results Rheumatologists knew the high effectiveness of the intrauterine device, but over-estimated the effectiveness of injectable medroxyprogesterone and condoms. Almost all identified methotrexate as a teratogen, but only 69% identified cyclophosphamide and 37% mycophenolate. Most rheumatologists knew that lupus activity in pregnancy is the main predictor of pregnancy outcomes, but underestimated the risks of hypertension and race. Conclusion To improve lupus pregnancy planning and management, rheumatologists would benefit from improved knowledge about contraceptive effectiveness, teratogens, and the risks from non-lupus factors for pregnancy complications.