If you have Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and are either expecting, nursing, or contemplating pregnancy, you may have questions about how MS and its treatments could affect you and your baby. In today’s digital age, it’s tempting to turn to the internet for answers. However, reliable and accurate information on chronic conditions and their treatments during pregnancy can be elusive. So, let’s cut through the noise and start with what we know!
Encouraging Findings
Research indicates that MS does not hinder a woman’s chances of becoming pregnant. In fact, many women with MS experience fewer relapses during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Studies have shown that pregnancy does not worsen MS or accelerate its progression. Furthermore, MS during pregnancy does not increase the risk of birth defects or major complications for the mother or newborn. Some research even suggests that pregnancy might have a protective effect against the progression of MS—though further studies are needed to confirm this.
Advancements in MS Treatments
A decade ago, only a few treatments were available for MS, including Betaseron® (Interferon Beta-1b) and Avonex® (Interferon Beta-1a), which are known as disease-modifying therapies that help slow the course of the disease and reduce relapse severity. Today, the number of available therapies has doubled. However, the big question remains: what do we know about the safety of these newer treatments during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Unfortunately, there is limited data on the safety of the latest MS medications during these critical times. Therefore, it is generally recommended that women with MS discontinue disease-modifying treatments at least one menstrual cycle before trying to conceive. Older medications used to manage symptoms during relapses, like Solu-Medrol® (methylprednisolone) and prednisone, have been well-studied in pregnancy, providing more clarity on their use. Regardless of the medications you may be on, it’s crucial to discuss your pregnancy plans and treatment options with your healthcare provider beforehand.
Unplanned Pregnancies
What if your pregnancy is unplanned, as is the case for almost half of all pregnancies in the United States? You may have numerous questions about how MS and any medications you are taking might affect your pregnancy. Common concerns include whether your medication could impact your developing baby, if additional testing will be necessary, and whether you can continue your MS treatments during pregnancy and nursing. While these questions can feel overwhelming, help is readily available!
Reaching Out for Support
There are specialists who can provide valuable answers to your questions. Organizations like MotherToBaby offer free, confidential support for individuals needing information about exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Whether your query is about medications, cosmetics, or chronic conditions like MS, expert counselors are available to assist you.
Making a Difference Together
Every woman hopes for a healthy pregnancy. After years of engaging with pregnant women who have chronic conditions, it’s clear that better answers regarding medication effects during pregnancy are crucial. MotherToBaby has a follow-up program for pregnant women with MS, regardless of their current treatment status. By sharing your experiences, you can contribute to ongoing research that may benefit others. For more information on current studies related to MS and pregnancy, reach out to the experts today.
Summary
Women with MS can have healthy pregnancies, and it’s essential to get the right information regarding the impact of MS and its treatments on pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consulting healthcare professionals and organizations dedicated to maternal health can help you navigate this journey.
For more insights, check out our blog post on traveling with a baby, which shares lessons learned that can be beneficial during your parenting journey. Also, if you’re considering at-home insemination, you can find reliable resources and kits that facilitate this process, ensuring you have all the necessary tools for your family planning endeavors.