Management strategies for female patients of reproductive potential with multiple sclerosis: An evidence-based review

Patricia K. Coyle, Jiwon Oh, Melinda Magyari, Celia Oreja-Guevara, Maria Houtchens

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS)is an inflammatory, demyelinating, neurodegenerative, immune-mediated disease primarily diagnosed in early adulthood. Multiple sclerosis mostly impacts women of reproductive potential, with pregnancy and birth outcomes being major concerns for many patients. While there is ample evidence that the disease itself has no impact on pregnancy, many women living with MS still question their ability to have children, and the impact of childbearing on their disease in the short and long term. Such questions emphasize the importance of proper guidance from healthcare professionals, particularly neurologists. Management considerations are also complicated by the growing list of available treatment options. This review will summarize current evidence and expert opinion around the management of female MS patients of reproductive potential, from family planning to the postpartum period. Current guidelines on the use of disease-modifying therapies throughout pregnancy will be discussed, as well as other general medical recommendations, to minimize MS disease activity in the peripartum period.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)54-63
Number of pages10
JournalMultiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders
Volume32
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2019
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Disease modifying therapy
  • Family Planning
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Postpartum
  • Pregnancy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Neurology
  • Clinical Neurology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Management strategies for female patients of reproductive potential with multiple sclerosis: An evidence-based review'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this