Pregnancy

[grungema3]

my friend has RA  and now finds she's pregnant, 35 years old. She has been taking a cocktail of medication s, pain killers, steroids etc. She would love to have this baby (1st) but she's worried sick re. meds. as this was a happy surprise, plus does pregnancy have any effect on the general condition? Thanks. Hope someone replies because she 's asking me questions and I don't know anything about this condition.

[grungema3]

Thank you so much for the very helpful comments. I do hope that my friend can continue with this pregnancy as she would make such a lovely mum. I'll pass on all your advice and, once again, thank you. Love xxx

[carolanivey]

Hi grungema,

The good news is that many women with RA experience remission while they are pregnant, so she may end up not needing any meds at all. At least until after she delivers, when she is likely to have the symptoms return. Then, if she is breastfeeding, that will be another separate issue to deal with. (I chose not to breastfeed, as I needed to go back on my meds very soon after delivering my kids.)

Some RA medications can be taken safely while pregnant - she will need to consult with her rheumatologist and make sure he or she is communicating with her obstetrician.

Please pass along my congratulations!

[skmedlin27703]

The medications she is taking will probably effect the baby... the 1st trimester is the most important for the baby's development. Has she been to the doctor yet? I would encourage her to be completely honest with the doctor so they can provide her with sound advise.