Managing MS and a Healthy Pregnancy

If you want to start a family, having multiple sclerosis (MS) doesn’t have to stop you.  It doesn’t keep you from getting pregnant or hurt your unborn baby. Odds are your pregnancy and delivery will be just like women without MS.

Still, moms-to-be with MS face unique challenges. Plan ahead and learn what to do before, during, and after pregnancy to make your next 9 months a little easier.

Talk to your doctor.  Let her know you want to have a baby. If your MS is under control, you’ll probably get a green light.

Some MS drugs, like glatiramer acetate (Copaxone), teriflunomide (Aubagio), and interferons, aren’t safe during pregnancy. You’ll need to stop taking them at least 1 month before you start trying.

Time it right. Just like any woman, you might not get pregnant right away. To limit the time you’re off your medicine, try to learn your “fertility window.” That’s the time of the month when you’re most likely to conceive.  You can buy an ovulation kit at the drugstore to help you figure it out. Your doctor can recommend other ways to help your timing, too.

Build a support team. MS can wear you out, and pregnancy can, too. Don’t be afraid to ask family and friends to fix meals or help around the house so you can save your energy. Make sure your team is ready to pitch in after the baby comes, too.

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