@Copaxone and pregnancy on Shift.ms

Copaxone and pregnancy

Hello there! I recently had my first child and 12 months later suffered the biggest relapse I've ever had (was only formally diagnosed with RRMS a few months before falling pregnant). My NeuroDirect initially wanted me on Tec but after speaking to my husband and I about wanting to grow our family, is now suggesting Copaxone as he says is safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. The thought of any DMD terrifies the beejezus out of me and I am scared. Wondered if anyone with any experience of Copaxone and pregnancy? Currently on second dose of steroids in last three weeks of this relapse and up all night googling and googling and googling. Brain hurts!

Hi @hackneyworkingmum , it seems that the hormonal changes during pregnancy protect you from MS activity, but this can then be followed by the post-natal relapse from hell! Adopting any powerful medicine causes apprehension, but you have to weigh this up against what the underlying condition could do to you, if it was not controlled/managed. The uncertain risks of MS are considered to be worse than the known risks of the DMDs. You'll be regularly monitored for any problems. Be very wary of consulting Dr. Google. He can find you all manner of horror stories which are totally out of context. Stick to creditable websites like the MS Trust and MS Society. There's a range of publications from the MS Trust, https://support.mstrust.org.uk/shop The "Newly Diagnosed" section is a good place to start, especially the introduction to DMDs. As for the steroids, these don't work in the same way as a headache tablet. MS relapses are the result of inflammation on your Central Nervous System (CNS). Steroids address this inflammation and then you need to recover from the symptoms caused by the relapse. The Steroids will still be working for you over the following 6 - 8 weeks to aid your recovery. But, you do need to rest up and allow this recovery to happen.