Use of synthetic and biologic DMARDs during pregnancy.

: Since most of the autoimmune diseases (AID) affect mostly women in their fertile years, and fertility is in general preserved, the use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) during conception, pregnancy, and lactation has been a matter of concern in the treatment of women affected by AID. : We performed a comprehensive review of the latest and most relevant research papers published in the field and discussed different aspects related to the use of synthetic and biologic DMARDs and immunosuppressants in the preconceptional period, during pregnancy and lactation in AID patients, both in males and females. : Active AID impose an increased risk for adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, such as preeclampsia, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, prematurity, low birth weight, and stillbirth.