Pregnant and classed as 'high risk' (UK)
Hi All,
A question regarding pregnancy for ladies (and/or their partners in the UK). I have MS, diagnosed just over two years ago - was on DMDs and I've, thankfully been very stable. I'm now pregnant with my first, and have come off my DMDs. My neuro was totally relaxed about it, I feel fine etc. I know about the protective effects of pregnancy and so on, and risks post birth.
For some reason my midwife has classed me a 'high risk', which means I'm now under a consultant, have frequent appointments, extra scans and now have limited options for birth (I wanted a pool birth). Obviously I think it's great this option is available for people who need it, but I think it's totally unnecessary and is creating extra stress during this time - not least getting all the time off work. I'm thinking of pushing back but wanted to see what experiences other women with MS have had here in the UK - is this normal or a step too far?
Many thanks as always,
Nicole
It does sound a bit excessive. To my knowledge there are no increased risks to the unborn baby associated with having MS. I cant see why your birthing options are restricted on the basis of MS alone unless you have mobility issues, major fatigue or other issues? I found this fact sheet which may be helpful. https://support.mstrust.org.uk/file/pregnancy-and-parenthood-factsheet.pdf I hope you resolve it. Wishing you a stress free pregnancy and healthy baby :-)
Hi Nicole, Firstly, congratulations to you! I was high-risk too. I had not been diagnosed with MS by the time I was pregnant, but had met with GPs and consultants over many years for what was clearly MS (the maternity hospital mentioned MS to me on a few occasions; they knew the score all right!). I was also unexpectedly, but joyfully, pregnant aged 42, so all round the high-risk status was precautionary, but correct. I would much rather see a consultant that a general GP or nurse, the extra scans can give you some reassurance that everything is going all right. I didn't get the pool birth I would have liked, however, our number one priority on our birthing plan was the safe delivery of our child (she arrived after 2.5 days!). Happy to send you more details over private emails (I don't want to put everyone off their respective dinners!!) take care, Elizabeth