From the Research
Yes, rheumatoid factor (RF) can be positive postpartum. RF levels can increase temporarily in some women after giving birth, even if they don't have rheumatoid arthritis (RA) 1. This elevation is usually transient and may return to normal within a few months postpartum. It's essential to note that a positive RF test alone is not sufficient to diagnose RA. Other factors, including clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, and additional blood tests like anti-CCP antibodies, are necessary for a definitive diagnosis. If a woman has a positive RF test postpartum and is concerned about RA, she should:
- Consult with a rheumatologist for a comprehensive evaluation.
- Monitor for symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Consider repeating the RF test after 3-6 months to see if levels have normalized. The temporary elevation in RF postpartum is thought to be related to hormonal changes and the immune system's readjustment after pregnancy, as discussed in a study on exacerbations of autoimmune diseases during pregnancy and postpartum 2. This phenomenon highlights the complex interplay between pregnancy, the immune system, and autoimmune conditions. In the context of RA, a study on parenting problems postpartum in patients with rheumatoid arthritis found that physical domains of parenting postpartum are most commonly affected in patients with RA 3. However, this study does not directly address the question of RF positivity postpartum. Overall, the most relevant study to this question is the one from 1998, which found that RF can be positive in some women postpartum, even if they don't have RA 1.