Clomid, Preterm Birth, and Placental Issues: A Patient's Story

Question
I was put on clomid by my doctor and I conceived twins. I did have 2 previous miscarriages and no testing was done. With this pregnancy I took progesterone for 13 weeks. I went into preterm labor at 24 weeks and had my twins the same day. Little did I know the hospital that I went to was not a good hospital. When our lawyer looked at my records it said that my placenta was infected (I don't remember what he called it but the condition started with a c) he said that this condition could be caused by bacteria or an autoimmune disease (our lawer use to be a nurse). The hospital didn't do any further test. I do want to have more kids one day but I am scared that if I do have an autoimmune disease it will just happen again. What kind of autoimmune diseases could cause preterm labor?

Answer
Dear Cortney,

The abnormal antibodies produced in autoimmune disorders can cross the placenta and cause problems in the fetus. But pregnancy affects different autoimmune disorders in different ways. The placental condition your lawyer was noting that started with a 'C' was likely "chorionitis", which is simply a generalized term for a placental infection or inflammation. It is often associated with a premature rupture of membranes/premature delivery. Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) is one particular autoimmune disease that would tend to cause preterm deliveries. However, it would be impossible (and irresponsible) from this forum to speculate as to what may have occurred in your case. It would take more than one immunologist or equally qualified expert extensively researching your specific medical records to determine what MIGHT have happened.

I realize it is very frustrating and painful when situations such as this occur and I truly wish I do more for you, but I just cannot. I do wish you well in the pursuit of your answers.

Brenda