Multiple sclerosis patients who undergo infertility treatments have higher relapse rates

Multiple sclerosis patients who undergo infertility treatments have higher relapse rates. Multiple sclerosis can bring upon many health complications, infertility being one of them. Research published in Annals of Neurology found that multiple sclerosis patients who undergo assisted reproduction technology (ART) face a higher risk of disease activity and multiple sclerosis relapse.

Researcher Dr. Jorge Correale from the study said, “When MS and infertility coincide, patients seek ART to achieve pregnancy. Given the role of some reproductive hormones in autoimmune diseases, those with MS receiving infertility treatments are at particular risk of exacerbating their disease.”

The researchers analyzed clinical, radiological, and immune responses in 16 multiple sclerosis patients who underwent 26 ART cycles. The team recruited additional 15 MS patients not undergoing ART cycles and 15 healthy volunteers to participate as controls.

The findings uncovered that 75 percent of multiple sclerosis patients experienced worsening of the disease following the ART treatment. Fifty-eight percent of patients reported a relapse during the three months after the ART treatment. Patients also experienced worsening of existing symptoms, and some of them developed new symptoms.

Dr. Correale concluded, “Our findings indicate a significant increase in MS disease activity following infertility treatment. Neurologists should be aware of possible disease exacerbation so they may discuss the benefits and risks of ART with MS patients.”

LEARN MORE

helps to provide educational information for persons affected by MS