Newly Diagnosed
Pregnancy and Multiple Sclerosis
It already has been noted (see What Causes MS?) that, if there is a person with MS in the family, other family members may have a slightly higher risk of getting the disease. A woman with MS runs a slightly higher risk that her child will also get MS at a later stage than does a woman without MS. Most people find that the risk is not a reason to give up the idea of having children.
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But a second question involves the effect of pregnancy on MS. Various studies have shown that, during pregnancy, MS is on average less active. Relapses occur less frequently. But in the first 3 months after the birth they can actually become more frequent, which may cancel out any benefit gained during pregnancy. Of course, this does not stop women with MS choosing to become pregnant ref nd16.
A totally different question women should consider (together with their partners) is bringing-up a child with the additional challenges that MS can impose. Such challenges may include the times when the MS causes people to feel less well or more tired, or if the MS becomes more progressive in the future. This is a much more difficult question to answer and it greatly depends on people’s personal circumstances, personalities and experiences.
For most people, MS has not been a reason for giving up the idea of children, and if the people around them (partner, family members and friends) are prepared to be supportive, there is no reason why a person with MS should not be able to experience having a normal family life.
Current medications should be discussed with a doctor. He or she may advise stopping certain medications during pregnancy. Also, if a woman with MS stops therapy, she should discuss restarting it, shortly after giving birth.
Further information and sources of support (although these are mainly American) for mothers (or potential mothers) with MS can be found at www.msmoms.com.
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