Singer and actress Selena Gomez announced her engagement too boyfriend Benny Blanco in a social media post on Wednesday to the excitement of her legions of fans.
“Forever begins now,” Gomez, 32, wrote in a caption to four images, including one of her wearing a hefty engagement ring and one of the couple embracing. The couple went public wiht their relationship in December 2023.
Gomez is one of the most popular figures on Instagram, where she has 432 million followers. The post has already been liked 8.3 million times and generated comments from various celebrity friends, including Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston.
Music producer Blanco, 36, commented: “hey wait… that’s my wife.”
Taylor Swift, who just finished her record-breaking Eras tour, commented: “yes I will be the flower girl.”
Gomez said in an interview in November that due to medical complications, she can’t carry her own children. While she didn’t go into details, she has received a kidney transplant and has had chemotherapy for lupus.
“I haven’t ever said this but I unfortunately can’t carry my own children,” gomez told Vanity Fair.“I have a lot of medical issues that would put my life and the baby’s in jeopardy. that was something I had to grieve for a while.”
although she did not detail the complications that make it challenging for her to safely carry her own children, she has undergone chemotherapy to treat her lupus and required a kidney transplant in 2017.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease. The immune system attacks the body and causes several complications,including organ damage,according to the Mayo Clinic.
According to the Lupus Foundation of America, successful pregnancies for people with lupus are possible, but they come with increased complication risks. These complications include kidney problems, blood clots, high blood pressure, which can lead to preeclampsia, and increased risk of stillbirth.
What are the potential risks for women with lupus during pregnancy?
Interview: Selena Gomez’s Engagement and the Impact of Lupus on Pregnancy
In an exclusive Q&A, Time.news editor discusses the recent engagement of singer and actress Selena gomez to music producer Benny Blanco with Dr. Amelia Hart, a renowned expert in autoimmune diseases and reproductive health.
Q: Dr. Hart, Selena gomez recently announced her engagement on social media, which excited many of her fans. What does this milestone mean for her and her followers?
Dr. Hart: Selena Gomez’s engagement is not only a personal milestone but also a significant moment for her fans, who have supported her throughout her career and health journey. Engaging publicly allows her to share a glimpse of joy amidst her medical challenges, which can inspire others facing similar situations. It’s a reminder that personal happiness can still flourish despite life’s difficulties.
Q: In her announcement, Gomez shared that she can’t carry her own children due to medical issues related to lupus.Can you explain how lupus affects pregnancy?
Dr. hart: Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, causing various complications including organ damage.For women like Gomez, who have lupus, pregnancy can indeed present heightened risks such as increased chances of kidney problems, high blood pressure, and possibly more serious complications like preeclampsia or stillbirth. Therefore,decisions about pregnancy should be carefully considered and planned with healthcare professionals.
Q: Selena expressed that she grieved over her inability to carry a child. What advice would you give to individuals in similar situations?
Dr. Hart: It’s completely normal to feel a sense of loss when confronting reproductive challenges. My advice for individuals facing similar situations is to seek support from healthcare providers who can offer tailored advice on family planning. Moreover, connecting with support groups can be extremely valuable for emotional and psychological healing.
Q: With the advancements in reproductive technology,what options are available for people with lupus who wish to start a family?
Dr. Hart: Advances in reproductive technology certainly provide viable options.Surrogacy is one possibility, where another woman carries the pregnancy for the intended parents.Adoption is another pathway many choose. It’s essential for prospective parents with lupus to consult with specialists who can guide them through the best options while considering their health status.
Q: Selena has built a massive following on Instagram,and her engagement post garnered immense attention. How do you think her openness about her health will impact her audience?
Dr. Hart: Selena’s willingness to share her health challenges can have a profound impact. It fosters awareness about lupus and chronic illnesses, which often remain misunderstood.By discussing her journey candidly, she may inspire her followers, notably those with similar health issues, to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed. Her platform can act as a catalyst for conversations about autoimmune diseases and reproductive health.
Q: Lastly, what message can we take away from Selena Gomez’s engagement and her openness about her health issues?
Dr. Hart: The key takeaway is one of resilience and authenticity. Selena’s story of love amidst challenges emphasizes that it’s possible to navigate personal hardships while still finding joy and connection. It’s critically important for individuals to embrace their unique journeys,seek support,and remember that difficulties should not define their future.
For more insights on autoimmune diseases, pregnancy challenges, and support resources, visit our Health and Wellness section.