Question

Management of IBD in pregnancy.

Hint:

Optimal disease control prior to pregnancy is key to minimizing risks for both mother and baby in IBD management.

Answer 1

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, poses unique challenges during pregnancy due to concerns about medication safety, disease flare-ups, and the health of both mother and fetus. Proper management is critical to prevent complications.
Step 1: Disease Management During Pregnancy:
1. Medication Use: The goal is to control IBD symptoms while ensuring safety for both mother and fetus. Medications such as corticosteroids, thiopurines, and biologics (e.g., infliximab) are considered safe during pregnancy when used appropriately. 2. Monitoring and Disease Activity: Regular monitoring through blood tests and imaging is important to assess disease activity and to adjust medications as needed to minimize flare-ups.
Step 2: Timing of Pregnancy and Treatment:
It is generally recommended for women with IBD to conceive during periods of disease remission, as flare-ups during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications such as preterm labor or low birth weight.