Reproductive issues and multiple sclerosis: 20 questions

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is commonly diagnosed in young adults during their reproductive years. Consequently, concerns about family planning and MS management related to pregnancy and breastfeeding are often encoun-tered in clinical practice. Pregnancy itself is not harmful for women with MS. However, disease-modifying thera-pies (DMTs) have implications for reproductive planning, including stopping treatment while trying to conceive and during pregnancy, as well as managing fetal risks. People with MS and their care team must engage in collabora-tive decision-making before, during, and after pregnancy. Based on the results of a consensus-building initiative, answers are provided to 20 frequently asked questions regarding the management of MS during pregnancy planning, pregnancy, and the postpartum period.

Automated summary

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is often diagnosed in young adults during their reproductive years, raising concerns about family planning and MS management during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Pregnancy itself is safe for women with MS, but disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) may require adjustments in reproductive planning and fetal risk management. Collaborative decision-making between MS patients and their care team is crucial before, during, and after pregnancy. A consensus-building initiative provides answers to 20 frequently asked questions regarding the management of MS during pregnancy planning, pregnancy, and the postpartum period.