Deciding to start a family is an exciting time in your life. However, when you have arthritis there may be extra challenges which are usually overcome. Your arthritis may affect your pregnancy and conversely, your pregnancy may affect your arthritis.
Therefore, it is most important that you discuss family planning with your rheumatology team to ensure you have a safe conception, pregnancy and delivery. Sometimes it is necessary to stop or alter some of your medication, but your healthcare team will advise you on this. As every pregnancy is different, a plan of care will be developed in partnership with your rheumatology and obstetric teams which will be specific for you.
This booklet about pregnancy and arthritis is an important guide for any prospective mum or dad with inflammatory arthritis, who is considering having a family.
