Can pregnant women undergo treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am four and a half months pregnant and suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. I cannot perform household tasks because of the severe pain in my hands and legs. Due to pregnancy, I am not taking any tablets for arthritis. Due to arthritis, will my baby be affected? Should I go with treatment? I prefer natural treatment with foods and diet modifications. What kind of diet should I follow? Can I go ahead with treatment? My age is 27 years, and I weigh 88 pounds. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read the query, and I can understand your concern.

Arthritis will not affect your baby. There are medicines for RA (rheumatoid arthritis), but none are 100% safe during pregnancy. Hence, I suggest you go for a natural treatment with diet modifications. You need to pay attention to foods that cause a flare-up of your pain and symptoms and then avoid those foods, like milk, peanuts, etc. But if there is severe pain, you will require medicines for a short duration. You can also do other natural and holistic treatments like yoga, dipping hands and legs in warm water, massage therapy, and avoiding stress.

I hope this will help you.

Thank you.