Deciding to have a baby is an important decision for any woman, and for women with MS it may be even more complicated because of the nature of the disease and the progression of symptoms. But having MS will not typically affect your ability to conceive, nor will it affect pregnancy. Most women with MS have normal deliveries compared to women without MS.
If you decide to become pregnant, remember that planning is the key. Get all the information you need to make an informed decision. Talk to your neurologist and find a supportive obstetrician; talk to them about your plan to become pregnant and how to manage pregnancy.
Talk to your doctor and nutritionist about your dietary needs before and during pregnancy. A balanced diet that follows Canada's Food Guide will help you fight infections and increase your energy levels. Make sure your diet contains enough folic acid, as this mineral helps prevent birth defects.
You should also discuss with your doctor your ability to care for a baby. Some of your symptoms might interfere with nurturing a child, including blurred vision, difficulty walking, excessive fatigue or partial paralysis. Because the progression of MS is highly unpredictable, you might need extra care and support both during and after pregnancy.
Talk to your doctor if you are taking MS medications. Ask your obstetrician and neurologist about which medications are safe to take during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/MS-and-Pregnancy