An Overview Of Rheumatoid Arthritis And Pregnancy

Rheumatoid arthritis refers to swollen and painful joints

, a condition most commonly found among women and elderly. Strangely, pregnancy and rheumatoid Arthritis are closely and interestingly related to each other. Right from conception, pregnancy brings remarkable changes to the immune system, and these change contribute to changes in the symptoms most commonly associated with this disease.

Different people have different experiences and observations regarding pregnancy and rheumatoid arthritis. In some cases, pregnancy brings a temporary relief while others experience flares. About 75% women report relief in pain and swelling during pregnancy. Reduction in the severity of symptoms is usually observed after the first trimester. This may be due to certain hormonal changes during the second trimester.

It is also believed that the immune system gets a bit weak during pregnancy. This is done to accept the fetus as part of the body. This response calms the rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Remission continues throughout pregnancy, and the symptoms relapse just after the delivery. In the other case, muscular spasms and general body weakness may aggravate RA symptoms. Swelling, backaches and tiredness are supposed to be associated with pregnancy, instead of rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis patients have to face problems in vaginal delivery as well. The hip and back bone does not grow, thus leading towards caesarean deliveries.

When it comes to medicines, the relationship between pregnancy and RA gets a bit serious. Some medicines typically used to treat RA, such as Methotrexate and Leflunomide, are strictly prohibited during pregnancy. These drugs may cause abortion or birth defects. Only some specific drugs, rated harmless by FDA, can be taken during pregnancy.

Certain drugs such as Sulphasalazine and anti-TNF agents can be safely used to control RA during pregnancy. They pose no danger to mother or the baby, making them a popular choice for sufferers of the disease. Patients need to be careful during breastfeeding. Some drugs that calms down immune response, are not allowed during this period. Drugs like NSAIDs and Prednisone can be taken according to the prescribed dose.

A healthy diet is the best way to control RA during pregnancy. A sensible diet may reduce the chance and intensity of relapse. So it is important to take care of your movement and activities. Moreover, it is very important to control body weight after pregnancy; otherwise the weight-bearing joints may badly swell up. In short, except the serious kind of arthritis, such as arthritis of ribs and hips, Rheumatoid arthritis has no serious impact on normal pregnancy and delivery.

by: Joanne Chamoun

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