Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease of the central nervous system that impacts all aspects of life. One of the concerns that people with MS have is about pregnancy and whether the various disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can impact the process of conceiving or the health of the developing fetus. Learn whether MS affects pregnancy.
MS and Fertility
MS doesn’t directly affect fertility. However, problems can arise for those who experience symptoms or rely on some medications that cause side effects. Symptoms of multiple sclerosis can lead to a diminished sex drive and could impact a man’s ability to get and maintain an erection.
It’s crucial to know that MS doesn’t increase the chances of having a miscarriage, birth abnormalities, or ectopic pregnancies. Treatments for MS also don’t impact the health of the eggs. However, some options, like cladribine, may affect sperm.
Pregnancy and Disease-Modifying Therapies
Although the majority of DMTs don’t affect sperm, some can impact fetal development. Whether you should stop the DMTs or not has to be a personal decision you make with the help of your doctor. In most cases, you will have to consider whether the benefits of taking the medications outweigh the risks.
Postpartum Period and MS
Some evidence suggests that breastfeeding could be helpful in preventing MS relapses after giving birth. Keep in mind that most DMTs are not recommended for women who are breastfeeding. Together with your doctor, you can decide whether breastfeeding is an option for you or not.
Turning to Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine, such as stem cell therapy, offers the chance to manage MS symptoms you face by relying on your body’s natural healing process. Patients exploring should speak to a regenerative medicine specialist or their physician to see what treatments may offer options without affecting your chances of conceiving and having a healthy pregnancy.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for multiple sclerosis, also known as stem cell for multiple sclerosis. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.