Rheumatologists' knowledge of contraception, teratogens, and pregnancy risks.

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.

Duke Scholars

Author Megan Elizabeth Bowles Clowse Medicine, Rheumatology and Immunology

Author Amanda Marie Eudy Medicine, Rheumatology and Immunology

Author Lisa Giorgina Criscione-Schreiber Medicine, Rheumatology and Immunology