APLAR Management of Reproductive Issues in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases Guideline Summary

Design and created by Guideline Central in participation with the Asia-Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology.

Document Overview

Document Title: Management of Reproductive Issues in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases

Source Citation: Ravindran, Vinod et al. “The Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) Consensus Statements for the Management of Reproductive Issues in Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases.” International journal of rheumatic diseases vol. 29,7 (2026): e70751. doi:10.1111/1756-185x.70751

Document Objectives: The management of reproductive health in individuals with autoimmune rheumatic diseases (AIRDs) has evolved into a primary clinical priority. Wide variations in clinical practice and drug availability in the Asia-Pacific regions necessitate localized frameworks. These consensus statements, developed by the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) Special Interest Group for Women's Health & Reproductive Issues in Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases, aim to bridge the gaps within the region, foster multidisciplinary collaboration, and address regional knowledge deficits. The panel approved four overarching principles and 86 statements, organized into 16 broad categories. These statements cover all three phases of pregnancy in AIRDs, the safety of medications during pregnancy and lactation, contraception, assisted reproductive techniques, fertility preservation, and hormonal replacement therapy, covering both female and male aspects as relevant. In a field often lacking high-quality data, these consensus statements from APLAR provide expert opinion-based guidance to support clinical decision-making. It is envisaged that it will assist in educational and training purposes and help shape future research priorities.

Diseases/Conditions (MeSH)

D012098 - Reproduction

D012216 - Rheumatic Diseases