IBD and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know -San Diego, CA

Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a condition that can be quite a challenge. IBD can cause destruction of the intestinal wall as well as debilitating sores and inflammation in the intestinal tract. If you have been diagnosed with IBD, you may have many questions. Many individuals are diagnosed in their 20s or 30s. This is also the time in life when individuals are attempting to start families. You may have questions regarding whether or not your IBD diagnosis will impact your ability to get pregnant. What implications will IBD have on a healthy pregnancy?

Information on Understanding IBD and its relationship with pregnancy in San Diego, CA

IBD May Impact Your Ability to Get Pregnant

If you are attempting a pregnancy and you have IBD, it is vital to manage your IBD before you conceive. Once the IBD is under control, studies show that it will likely remain under control throughout pregnancy. However, those who conceive while in the throes of IBD are more likely to have miscarriages, babies with low birth weight, preterm labor, and other gestational issues. Studies also show that those who attempt conception of a child during an IBD episode are less likely to conceive, suffering from decreased fertility.

What Can I Do Before I Start Trying to Conceive?

Before attempting to conceive, in addition to managing the symptoms of your IBD, it will be essential to supplement with a prenatal vitamin or folic acid. Vitamin D deficiency is also quite common in patients with IBD, so you may want to supplement with Vitamin D, as well. Always consult your doctor before beginning any supplemental nutrition.

Continue Taking Your Prescribed IBD Medications During Pregnancy

Some medications aren’t approved for safe use while pregnant. However, many new drugs have been developed that are safe to use during pregnancy. Discuss any concerns you have about your medication with your physician.

Diagnostic Procedures and Pregnancy

Your doctor will want to monitor your IBD symptoms while you’re pregnant. Make sure to schedule regular checkups with your gastroenterologist so that you can be carefully monitored. Your physician may require stool samples to measure inflammation and the presence of medications in the body. Your doctor will also likely perform blood work to measure iron levels.

What Can I Eat While Pregnant?

Patients with IBD should meet regularly with a dietitian to ensure that they are receiving the proper nutrients. Lack of absorption in the intestinal tract can lead to malnutrition, so it’s very important to ensure that you’re consuming the nutrients you need.

Conclusion

Pregnancy and IBD aren’t mutually exclusive, but pregnancy may be more of a challenge for patients with IBD. Regularly meeting with a physician will help to keep IBD under control to ensure a healthy pregnancy. When in doubt, consult your physician.

Advanced Functional Medicine

You can turn to the medical experts at Advanced Functional Medicine in San Diego for help with IBD, pregnancy, and more. We take a holistic approach to your healthcare needs and tailor personalized plans to meet your concerns. For more information, visit our website or schedule a consultation to get on the fast track to wellness.