Psoriatic arthritis and pregnancy
by: DisFreeSkinPosted on:

Managing Psoriasis When Pregnant: What to Know

As a mom-to-be, you might worry about how your psoriasis will act during pregnancy. This chronic skin issue can get better or worse at this time. It’s key to know the risks and how to handle your symptoms safely for you and your baby. Let’s look at the main things to think about for managing psoriasis when pregnant.

Key Takeaways

  • Psoriasis can improve, worsen, or stay the same during pregnancy, with some experiencing postpartum flare-ups.
  • Certain medications used to treat psoriasis may not be safe for the developing baby, requiring careful treatment planning.
  • Topical corticosteroids, phototherapy, and moisturizers are generally considered safe options for managing psoriasis during pregnancy.
  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, exercise, and stress management, can help alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
  • Consulting with your healthcare team is crucial to develop a personalized plan for managing your psoriasis during this important time.

Understanding Psoriasis During Pregnancy

Dealing with psoriasis during pregnancy can be tricky. About half of women with chronic plaque psoriasis see their symptoms get better in the first and second trimesters. But, 10%-20% of women find their psoriasis gets worse after pregnancy starts. Sadly, any good changes in symptoms often go away after the baby is born, and psoriasis usually goes back to how it was before.

Common Changes in Psoriasis Severity

Pregnancy can really affect how bad psoriasis symptoms are. Some women might see a big improvement, while others might see things get worse. It’s key to know these changes could happen and work closely with your healthcare team to manage your psoriasis well during pregnancy.

Potential Risks and Considerations

There are also risks and things to think about with psoriasis during pregnancy. Psoriasis might increase the chance of getting psoriatic arthritis, which can cause joint pain and stiffness. Also, it might make skin irritation and breastfeeding harder.

Also Read:Coconut Oil For Psoriasis: Benefits, Uses, and Tips

Working closely with your healthcare provider is key. They can help address any concerns and make a plan for managing your psoriasis during pregnancy and after. Knowing about the possible changes and risks helps you take steps to keep healthy and ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.

Treatment Options Safe for Pregnancy

When dealing with psoriasis during pregnancy, doctors focus on safe treatments for the baby. They often suggest moisturizers and emollients. These products don’t clear psoriasis but help protect the skin and prevent flare-ups. Topical corticosteroids of low to mid strength are also common, as they’re not linked to birth defects or early birth.

Phototherapy, like narrowband and broadband UVB, is another safe choice for pregnant women with psoriasis. This method uses ultraviolet light to lessen inflammation and improve skin appearance. It’s given under a doctor’s watchful eye to be safe and effective.

Moisturizers and Emollients

Moisturizers and emollients are key for psoriasis during pregnancy. They keep the skin hydrated, reduce swelling, and stop flare-ups. Though they don’t cure psoriasis, they offer relief and protect the skin from more irritation.

Topical Corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids are a common and effective treatment for psoriasis in pregnancy. These are usually safe for both mom and baby, not raising the risk of birth defects or early birth. Always follow your doctor’s advice on how to use and apply these treatments.

Phototherapy

Narrowband UVB and broadband UVB phototherapy are safe for pregnant women with psoriasis. This therapy exposes the skin to controlled ultraviolet light, reducing inflammation and improving skin look. It’s given under a doctor’s care to be safe and work well.

Also Read:Psoriasis on Fingers Causes: Triggers and Treatments

It’s crucial to work with your healthcare team for a safe psoriasis treatment plan during pregnancy. They can guide you through the options, making sure your condition is managed safely for you and your baby.

psoriasis when pregnant

Psoriasis can be tough to handle during pregnancy because it can change a lot. Doctors work closely with pregnant women to find safe and effective treatments. This ensures the health of the baby while controlling symptoms. Talking openly with your healthcare team is key when dealing with psoriasis and pregnancy.

About half of women with psoriasis see their symptoms get better during pregnancy. But, 10 to 20 percent might see them get worse. Many women also notice their psoriasis gets worse right after giving birth.

Working closely with your healthcare provider is crucial when managing psoriasis during pregnancy. They can help you find safe treatments, watch your condition, and keep you and your baby healthy.

Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy

Some psoriasis medications are not safe during pregnancy because they can harm the baby. These include:

  • Acitretin (Soriatane): Oral retinoids like Soriatane can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy or when trying to conceive.
  • Methotrexate: This drug can lead to miscarriages or birth defects, so men and women should stop using it at least 12 weeks before trying to conceive.
  • Tazarotene: Like Soriatane, this oral retinoid is also risky for birth defects and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Pregnant women on psoriasis treatments are told to join pregnancy registries. These registries track how the drugs affect mothers and babies.

Safe Treatment Options

Also Read:Plaque Psoriasis Treatment: Effective Solutions for Relief

While some medications are off-limits, there are safe ways to manage psoriasis and pregnancy:

  • Moisturizers and Emollients: These can soothe and moisturize the skin without risking the baby’s health.
  • Topical Corticosteroids: Low-to-moderate strength topical corticosteroids are usually safe for pregnant women.
  • Phototherapy: UVB phototherapy is safe during pregnancy and is often recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Talking with your healthcare provider about all treatment options is important. This helps find the safest and most effective way to manage your psoriasis during pregnancy.

“Maintaining open communication with your healthcare team is crucial when navigating psoriasis during this special time.”

Medications to Avoid During Pregnancy

Managing psoriasis while pregnant means knowing which medications to avoid. Oral retinoid acitretin (Soriatane), immunosuppressant methotrexate, and topical retinoid tazarotene are off-limits. They can harm the baby and should be stopped before trying to conceive.

Acitretin (Soriatane)

Acitretin, a retinoid, can cause serious birth defects. Stop it at least 3 years before pregnancy. It stays in your system for a long time.

Methotrexate

Methotrexate, a common psoriasis treatment, increases the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. Stop it 3 months before pregnancy to clear it from your body.

Tazarotene

Avoid tazarotene (Tazorac), a topical retinoid, during pregnancy. It can lead to birth defects. Stop it before planning a pregnancy.

Women with psoriasis planning a pregnancy should talk to their healthcare team. They need to stop high-risk medications before conception. This helps protect the baby.

Safe ways to manage psoriasis during pregnancy include hydration and safe topical treatments. Phototherapy is also an option. Always talk to a healthcare provider for advice on a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Breastfeeding and Psoriasis Treatment

Managing psoriasis while breastfeeding can be tough, but there are ways to keep your skin and baby safe. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests breastfeeding for the first 6 months. Many women with psoriasis keep breastfeeding up to 2 years or more.

Safe Topical Medications

For psoriasis treatment while breastfeeding, doctors often suggest safe topical treatments. These include low-to-mid-strength corticosteroids and calcipotriene. These treatments have little effect on breastfed babies. The National Psoriasis Foundation says there’s not much research on safe topical psoriasis medications for breastfeeding. But, these treatments are usually the safest choice.

Phototherapy Options

Phototherapy for psoriasis while breastfeeding can work for some women. Narrowband UVB and broadband UVB are usually safe, as they don’t harm nursing babies. But, finding time for these treatments with a newborn is hard.

Working with your healthcare team is key to finding the right psoriasis treatment while breastfeeding for you. Keeping your doctor updated and being proactive about your skin can help you manage your psoriasis. This way, you can focus on your baby’s health too.

“The likelihood of pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, preeclampsia, or preterm birth due to psoriasis is unclear and may depend on the severity of the symptoms.”

Managing Psoriasis Flare-Ups After Delivery

Postpartum is tough for many women, especially those with psoriasis. Up to 88% of women with psoriasis see their symptoms get worse after childbirth. This is due to big hormonal changes and stress during pregnancy and delivery.

But, there are ways to handle these flare-ups. Talking to your healthcare team, including your dermatologist, is key. They can help create a plan to prevent or lessen flare-ups. This might mean changing your treatment or adding new ways to manage your symptoms.

Addressing Postpartum Psoriasis Flare-Ups

Here are some important steps to take:

  • Make a postpartum visit to your dermatologist soon after giving birth to talk about how to prevent or manage flare-ups.
  • Keep using safe treatments like corticosteroids or calcipotriene for breastfeeding, as your doctor suggests.
  • Try phototherapy, like UVB light therapy, which is usually safe during this time.
  • Use stress management methods, like meditation, yoga, or counseling, to lessen stress’s effect on your psoriasis.

Working with your healthcare team and using a full approach can help you manage postpartum psoriasis flare-ups. This supports your health and well-being during this big change.

You’re not alone in this journey. Joining support groups, like MyPsoriasisTeam, can offer valuable advice and a community. This can help you deal with managing postpartum psoriasis flare-ups.

Potential Risks of Psoriasis During Pregnancy

Managing psoriasis during pregnancy can be tough. Women with psoriasis might face a higher risk of getting psoriatic arthritis. This type of arthritis causes joint pain and swelling. Also, psoriasis can make breastfeeding hard, especially if it affects the breasts or nipple area.

Development of Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that can happen in people with psoriasis. Pregnant women with psoriasis are more likely to get this condition. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It’s key to watch for signs of psoriatic arthritis and work with your healthcare team to manage it.

Skin Irritation and Breastfeeding Challenges

Psoriasis can cause skin irritation, which can make breastfeeding tough. If it affects the breasts or nipple area, breastfeeding can be uncomfortable or even painful. Women with psoriasis might need to try different feeding methods or get help from lactation consultants.

Potential Risks of Psoriasis During Pregnancy Percentage or Impact
Women with psoriasis have an increased risk of developing psoriatic arthritis –
Psoriasis can lead to skin irritation that creates challenges with breastfeeding –
Women with severe psoriasis are more likely to have a baby with low birth weight Compared to those without psoriasis
More than half of women experience a flare-up of psoriasis within six weeks after delivering a baby 60%

Women with psoriasis should work closely with their healthcare team during pregnancy and after giving birth. Understanding the risks and getting the right medical care is key. This helps ensure the best outcomes for both mom and baby.

Planning for Pregnancy with Psoriasis

If you have psoriasis and want to get pregnant, talk to your healthcare team often. Your dermatologist and obstetrician/gynecologist can guide you through the challenges of pregnancy. They can help make sure you and your baby are healthy.

Consulting Your Healthcare Team

Talking to your healthcare providers is key when planning for pregnancy with psoriasis. Discuss how to prepare for pregnancy, what to talk about with your healthcare providers, and how to adjust your psoriasis treatments. They can explain how your psoriasis might change during pregnancy and suggest safe treatments for you and your baby.

Medication Adjustments

Your healthcare providers might suggest changing your psoriasis medications during pregnancy. Some drugs like acitretin, methotrexate, and tazarotene aren’t safe for pregnant women. They will recommend safer alternatives. This way, you can have a treatment plan that’s good for you and your baby.

Working with your healthcare providers and being proactive helps you feel ready for pregnancy with psoriasis. With the right support, you can manage your psoriasis and focus on your baby’s health and safety.

“Collaboration with your healthcare team is key when planning for pregnancy with psoriasis. They can help you navigate the changes and ensure the best possible outcomes for both you and your baby.”

Stress Management and Self-Care

Pregnancy can be stressful, and dealing with psoriasis can make it harder. Using stress management like meditation or yoga can help control flare-ups and improve well-being. Eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep also support your skin and immune system during pregnancy.

A study showed that listening to meditation tapes with light therapy helped people with psoriasis more than just light therapy alone. This highlights the value of stress-reducing activities in managing psoriasis during pregnancy.

Self-care is key. Taking time for yourself, like enjoying a relaxing bath or a gentle walk, can ease the stress of living with psoriasis during pregnancy. Remember, taking care of yourself is important for your health and your baby’s development.

  • Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
  • Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking 8-10 glasses of water per day.
  • Get regular exercise, such as gentle walks or prenatal yoga, to support your physical and mental well-being.
  • Practice good sleep hygiene, aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

By following these self-care tips, you can better manage the stress and symptoms of psoriasis during pregnancy. This ensures a healthier and more comfortable experience for you and your baby.

“Stress is a known trigger for psoriasis flare-ups, and finding ways to manage stress is crucial during pregnancy.”

You’re not alone in this journey. Talk to your healthcare team, support groups, or loved ones for advice and support. They can help you with managing stress with psoriasis during pregnancy and ensuring your self-care for psoriasis during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Managing psoriasis during pregnancy means working closely with your healthcare team. It also means being ready to adjust your treatment as needed. By understanding how your condition might change, finding safe treatments, and focusing on self-care, you can play a big part in managing your psoriasis. This ensures the best outcomes for you and your baby.

Even though there’s limited data on psoriasis therapy during pregnancy, topical treatments and phototherapy are usually safe and well-tolerated. Oral and biologic therapies are used with caution but can be safe with careful monitoring. With your doctor’s help, you can create a plan that controls your symptoms and reduces risks to your pregnancy.

Psoriasis can sometimes get better during pregnancy but might get worse after giving birth. By focusing on self-care, managing stress, and keeping an eye out for any changes, you can confidently navigate this journey. This way, you can focus on the health of you and your baby.

FAQ

How can psoriasis change during pregnancy?

Psoriasis can change in many ways during pregnancy. About half of women see their symptoms get better, especially early on. But, 10-20% might see it get worse after pregnancy starts. The good news is, any improvement often goes away after the baby is born.

What are the potential risks of psoriasis during pregnancy?

Psoriasis during pregnancy can lead to psoriatic arthritis and skin issues that might affect breastfeeding.

What are the safe treatment options for managing psoriasis during pregnancy?

Safe ways to manage psoriasis include using moisturizers and certain creams. Low-to-mid strength creams and light therapy are also options.

What medications should be avoided during pregnancy?

Some psoriasis drugs are not safe during pregnancy. This includes oral retinoids, methotrexate, and a certain cream called tazarotene.

How can psoriasis be managed while breastfeeding?

Safe treatments for breastfeeding moms include special creams and light therapy. These help manage psoriasis without harming the baby.

What should I do if I experience a psoriasis flare-up after giving birth?

After having a baby, many women see their psoriasis get worse. Doctors can help with a plan to control these flare-ups. This might mean changing treatments or using stress management.

How should I prepare for pregnancy if I have psoriasis?

If you plan to have a baby and have psoriasis, talk to your healthcare team. They can guide you on how your psoriasis might change and what changes you might need to make to your treatment.

How can stress management and self-care help with psoriasis during pregnancy?

Stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga can help control flare-ups. Eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep also support your skin and immune system during pregnancy.

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