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Ask A Midwife

Q. I am a 27 year old female that as lupus. I have been trying to have a baby for three years and in the three years I had three miscarriages. My kidney function is 3.4. I was told that it is possible for me to have a baby. I just need some insight on what to do. I know there is no chance of me going fill term but I would like to try. I live in Baltimore Maryland. If you can give me a listing of doctors that can help me or let me know if I can be help. I am willing to travel. I hope and pray you can help me.

A. Hello there. I don't have a list of providers in your area. but recommend you look in the phone book and see what there is. Also, check your area for a Level III hospital, or for a Perinatologist. They are specialists in pregnancy, and perhaps can help you get to term with your pregnancy. If you have a provider you like, as them for a referral for genetic counseling to the nearest Genetic Counseling site. I'm sure in Baltimore there are some things available for you. Here is a Lupus site that might help:

Lupus - About.com

Pat Sonnenstuhl is a semi-retired nurse midwife with over 30 years of experience in health care (first as an RN, then as an ARNP, CNM). She has experience with hospital nursing/midwifery and home and birth center midwifery.

Two areas of special interest to her are GBS and nutrition.

She is about empowerment, and helping folks find their own answers, what is right for them, not what is right for her. But, she wants you well informed.