How did it feel to go off your meds?

I was nervous about how I would cope physically without medication.  However, what I had not considered was the psychological impact.  While I felt physically and emotionally vulnerable, I surprisingly also felt a sense of freedom.  It felt good to cleanse my body of drugs in preparation for creating new life.

You had a severe flare in your second pregnancy - could you tell us about that, how it affected your life and how you managed your symptoms?

This flare was severe and constant and I survived on fortnightly cortisone injections into my toes, knees, hips, shoulders, wrists, fingers and neck.  At times I was unable to roll over in bed; get in and out of bed; drive or squeeze a tube of toothpaste.  Caring for our toddler was incredibly challenging so we spent a lot of time at home doing activities that I could manage such as reading books, puzzles, crafts and sitting in the garden.

How would you recommend women prepare for the possibility of a flare during their pregnancy?

Be guided by your Rheumatologist about the medications that are safe to take.  Think creatively about how you manage pain - consider safe strategies such as meditation.  Asking family and friends for practical support (housework, cooking, child minding etc) will be vital especially when your baby is born.

What emotional challenges did you face while you are pregnant and how did you deal with them?

I had fears surrounding a potential post-birth flare; concerns about how well I could care our baby; and worries about whether my body would let me down.  Speaking with supportive family and friends, my Rheumatologist, Obstetrician and Psychologist helped alleviate some of my concerns..

What are some of the most important areas in which you need help when you're pregnant or a new mother?

Accepting a meal, allowing a friend to fold your laundry, make the beds or clean the kitchen will all help take the pressure off you.  When you are sleep deprived and dealing with the onset of a post-birth flare, you will benefit from your partner (if you have one) taking the baby for a walk while you sleep, taking over baby's bath time, and taking you to the beach or cafe to get you out of the house.

What do you recommend in terms of coordinating your medical team to make sure your joints and your baby are protected?

While you can't make the members of your medical team talk to each other about your care, you can educate yourself about what should be happening to you and your baby during this process.  If you are fully informed then you can encourage communication between your medical team.

What was the most challenging thing about being pregnant and becoming a mother with RA?

The energy needed to get through the pregnancy and to care for my children.  I was used to resting when unwell.  I am now less likely to be able to rest when flaring.  Finding the physical and mental strength to keep going when I want to go to bed can be hard.