Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic and debilitating autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.

MS is a progressive disease that results in the destruction of myelin, which is the protective coating that surrounds nerve fibers, leading to a range of symptoms such as fatigue, numbness, and issues with coordination and balance.

Although there is no cure for MS, studies have found that pregnancy may provide a natural protective mechanism against the disease’s progression.

Women with MS tend to experience fewer relapses during pregnancy, and some studies have found that the disease may go into remission for the duration of the pregnancy.

The Protective Mechanism of Pregnancy

While the exact reason for MS going into remission during pregnancy is still unclear, it is believed that the protective mechanism is due to the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy.

One of these hormones, estriol, has been shown to have immunomodulatory properties and can potentially suppress the immune response responsible for attacking the myelin surrounding the nerve fibers.

Beyond hormonal changes, pregnancy may also have a positive impact on the gut microbiome, which has been linked to the immune system’s regulation and function.

Studies have shown that pregnancy is associated with changes in the gut microbiome, which could contribute to the immune system’s protective response and help to reduce inflammation.

The Benefits of Pregnancy on MS Progression

The benefits of pregnancy on MS progression have been extensively studied, with many clinical trials finding a reduction in disease activity during pregnancy.

One clinical trial found that the relapse rate decreased by 70% during pregnancy compared to the year before and the year after pregnancy.

Additionally, some studies have suggested that the protective effect of pregnancy may continue beyond delivery.

A study conducted in 2014 compared pregnancy history and MS progression in 330 women with MS and found that women who had given birth to at least one child had a lower rate of progression of MS in the five years following delivery compared to women who had never been pregnant.

Other Considerations for Pregnancy and MS

While pregnancy may provide a natural way to delay MS progression, it is important to note that MS can still present complications during and after pregnancy.

Women with MS are more likely to have a complicated pregnancy, such as delivering their babies early or requiring a caesarean section. Additionally, pregnancy can lead to a temporary worsening of MS symptoms after delivery, known as postpartum relapse.

For this reason, it is important for women with MS to manage their disease carefully and work with their healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that considers their pregnancy plans.

This plan may include adjusting their medication regimen or monitoring their disease more frequently throughout pregnancy.

Conclusion

Overall, pregnancy has been shown to provide a natural mechanism for delaying MS progression.

Hormonal changes and changes in gut microbiome may have a positive impact on the immune system’s response, leading to reduced inflammation and disease activity. While pregnancy may offer a natural way to protect against MS, it is important for women with MS to work with their healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan to manage their disease during and after pregnancy.