Paper – Course and treatment of Myasthenia Gravis during pregnancy

Pregnancy and family planning issues are frequent concerns in the medical care of patients with myasthenia gravis since disease onset often coincides with

the life period which is decisive in this respect. Although pregnancy, delivery and breast feeding represent special circumstances in these patients, they are not associated with higher risks of complications compared to normal pregnancy, delivery and postpartum period. Frequently asked questions regarding the course of pregnancy as well as the impact of the disease and particularly medical treatment on pregnancy and the fetus or neonate. Great significance is attached to the mode of delivery since it is still widely accepted that patients with myasthenia gravis have to deliver per elective caesarean section. This paper gives an overview and provides a basis for the medical care and individual counseling of patients with myasthenia gravis who want to start a family or are already pregnant.

Pregnancy and Childbirth with Neuromuscular Diseases

In the summer edition of Quest Magazine, Summer July-August 2010, Margaret Whal, Amy Labbe and Miriam Davidson wrote an article examining the subject of pregnancy and childbirth with neuromuscular diseases from a medical point of view. Personal stories from women with varying types of neuromuscular diseases, a chart of disease-specific complications and advice were included. Here is an excerpt:

“ Having a baby can be the most thrilling and rewarding experience of a woman’s life, yet
it can also be fraught with fear and uncertainty. This is especially true for women with Neu- romuscular Diseases. This special report takes a look at the issues that arise for expectant mothers with muscle disease and find that, with proper care and planning, these women are usually – although not always – able to have successful pregnancies and give birth to healthy children”

The article in its totality may be read online at quest.mda.org. There is also a printable PDF version availbale. If you do not have access to a computer, you may call the MDA offices at (218) 727-3466 or (952) 832-5517 and request a copy to be mailed to you.