Q: Can I Take Prednisone While Pregnant?
Hello, and welcome ot the MyRACentral. The question you have asked is better answered by your doctor. That being said, I can share with you what I have read. Some studies have shown that prednisone appears to increase the risk of birth defects in pregnant animals. Extensive research has apparently not been done on prednisone and pregnancy. Prednsione is an older medication, and it was not initially assigned a pregnancy rating. Please talk to your healt care provider about the possible consequences of taking prednisone when pregnant.
Blessings,
V
Like V said, this is a good question for your doctor, especially since your doctor is the one who would be prescribing the prednisone in the first place. Make sure that you let your rheumatologist know that you are trying to get pregnant as there are other medications which you must not take during that time.
But let me tell you about a discussion I had with my rheumy. When I mentioned the possibility of wanting to plan how to go about treating my RA while looking to get pregnant, she spelled out what we could do. First off, I would have to go off of methotrexate for at least 3 months prior to trying to get pregnant. Then we could use prednisone and NSAIDs to control pain and inflammation. So in my case, prednisone would be one of the "go to" drugs to use. But of course, there are risks involved.
Bottom line...talk to your doctor about EVERYTHING!!!
As mentioned in the above posts, you would need to consult with your OB. In my case, I have fairly severe RA, so I went off MTX 6 months prior to "trying" and was on a higher dose of Prednisone. Everyone has a different definiton of "high dose" and I was on 15 - 20 mg per day - but that was the only med I was on. I have had 2 children and all went well.
I also nursed my babies while on prednisone, but again, you need to check with your doctor to understand your decision.
As it is an older drug, there is much more research on the side effects and the rates of the side effects.
Good luck!
I agree with what everyone else has said. From what I've read, and from conversations with my rheumatologist, it seems to me that Prednisone is one of the only drugs that can be used during pregnancy. Obviously, everyone's case is different, but that's how I've understood things.
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 Remedy Health Media. Remedy Health Media does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
8 Facts About Vitamin D and Rheumatoid Arthritis 
Conditions That Mimic Rheumatoid Arthritis 
8 Tips for Coping with Lupus 
6 Facts on Rheumatoid Arthritis, Sex and Relationships Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2013 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
