Sign in

or Register now

MyRACentral.com

See all of our health sites at www.HealthCentral.com
Thursday, November, 12, 2009
  • Font size
Receive a FREE Osteoarthritis of the knee pamphlet.  Start here.

Does RA decrease chances to get pregnant

Gulab
08/23/08

Hello

 

I am 31 yrs old and want to become to become pregnant.I have had RA for past 8 yrs and as everyone else have tried all sort of medication.Was on methatroxate and Arava for past 1 year but doc has stopped all that for me to conceive.It has been 2 mths since I was given all clear and was on prednisolone 5 mg before I developed some type of arthritis in my left eye.Now I am on 25mg prednisolone for past 2 weeks.Though my doc has said the dosage is fine and won't interfere with my ability to conceive I want to know is that true.Also,how long does it usually take to fall pregnant once you are off medication.

Answer This
Answers (1)
Lene  Andersen
Lene  Andersen
Close
Lene Andersen is wondering how to clone herself

Lene Andersen is a writer and photographer living in Toronto,...

Sunday, August 24, 2008

RA by itself should not impact your fertility, although, as you've found out, certain medications like methotrexate, do. I did a bit of research regarding prednisone and couldn't find much indicating that the drug prevents conception, although I did find a reference to it possibly impacting the regularity of your menstrual cycle, which can make becoming pregnant more challenging. Is your cycle regular? If you're not sure, you can use a basal thermometer to find out when you're ovulating. I wouldn't recommend stopping your prednisone, though, as it's important to be as healthy as possible when you're preparing for baby and that includes keeping your RA controlled. If you're concerned, go back to your rheumatologist and ask questions until you're comfortable.

 

Becoming pregnant can take a while, regardless of your health status. It is recommended that if you are under 35, you try to get pregnant for a year before seeing a doctor, over 35, the recommendation is six months. Depending on how impatient you are, you might want to give it a go for six months of unprotected sex 2-3 times a week and if you're still not pregnant by early next year, make an appointment to see your doctor. There are many fertility related sites on the Internet that can give you more tips.

 

Answer This

Your Ideal Rheumatologist

Establish a relationship with your doctor that works for you.

Download Guide

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

View all questions (1923) >

Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of The HealthCentral Network. The HealthCentral Network does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.

  • Font size
  • Bookmark
  • Save