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MS & IVF?!

So I am starting my first IVF round soon and have had some worsening MS symptoms recently, meaning it looks like I might now have to begin the disease-modifying medication.

Decided not to start disease-modifying treatment

I have been referred for it but previously discussed the side effects might outweigh the benefit at the time (mid last year) so myself and my neurologist chose to continue with regular MRIs to keep an eye as we were unsure if it would even progress or I'd have another relapse, rendering the medications unworthwhile if that makes sense!

Starting meds

However, I've unfortunately just had more damage to my visual field quite quickly which suggests I will probably now have to begin the meds. I am concerned as am already beginning IVF medication next month and to be honest am gutted that this might hinder, after waiting so long for this to finally go ahead! As well as the constant worry a female my age has about running out of eggs!!!

Worried that it will delay the IVF

It's difficult to find an answer as it's quite an exception for someone to be on both the MS medications as well as IVF, but if anyone knows absolutely anything that would be great! Gynecology are of course aware I have MS and this isn't an issue as I wasn't suffering any symptoms. Typically, now I am, I am worrying that it will now delay the IVF. 🙁

  1. Hi Gemma, there are some studies like the ones I linked below that suggest IVF might increase the risk of a relapse. All links attached are only as recent as 2016.

    Also attached is an article claiming that the interferon and glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) disease-modifying therapies shouldn't be used while pregnant and/or breast-feeding.

    As always, it's best to talk to your health care provider about the risks and benefits of using IVF and disease-modifying drugs. Wish I could be of more help. I hope someone who is more experienced and knowledgeable will chime in.

    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5203912/

    https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/767213
    https://www.everydayhealth.com/multiple-sclerosis/living-with/are-fertility-treatments-safe-for-women-with-multiple-sclerosis/

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