Does Rheumatoid Arthritis worsen with pregnancy?

Rheumatoid Arthritis tends to improve with pregnancy in 70–80% patients. The improvement generally starts in the first trimester. Various hormonal changes associated with pregnancy are believed to be responsible for the improvement. In the rest of them, it may worsen during pregnancy. Those with a negative rheumatoid factor & anti- CCP antibody are more likely to improve during pregnancy.

When can one plan pregnancy with Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Your arthritis must be reasonably controlled for a period of at least 3-4 months before planning pregnancy. You should not have had any flare during these months.
Always speak to your Rheumatologist before planning pregnancy as he may have to make changes in your medicines. He would be the best person to guide you regarding the timing of your decision. Please speak to him well in advance as Methotrexate has to be stopped at least 3 months prior to planning to conceive.

Is the pregnancy outcome different in patients with RA?

Most reports show that there is no increase in the risk of abortion/ still birth in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis. However, there are issues regarding the Rheumatoid arthritis activity and various anti arthritis medicine use during pregnancy.

Will my RA affect my unborn baby?

No. RA in mother, even if active during pregnancy does not seem to affect the unborn baby.

Created on: April 2007

Last updated on: April 2011