coloitis complications during pregnancy

My husband and I are thinking about having a second child but are worried about any complications from my colitis.  When i was pregnant 2 1/2 years ago i developed ulcerative colitis during my pregnacy which lead me to be induced for labor and then a c-section.  About 3 1/2 months after my daughter was born I had my gallbladder out, but still continued with severe UC.  long story short, i was in the hospital about 3 times with severe UC and pancreatitis, and later down the road was diagnosed with Chron's disease (which was just borderline chron's due to the labs). after they fiqured out what medication was going to work and i had about 4 months of high doses of steroids the problems went away.  I am symptom free now for about 1 1/2 years and would like some insight to possible other comlications during a second pregnancy.  is pregnancy something that will automatically cause a flair up of the UC, Chron's or pancreatitis?  Just trying to get some facts since i am getting the run around from my GI and OBGYN docors.  Thanks for any help!!!!!

[Ratnakar Kini, MD]

Hi rachelsmommy,
The activity of the disease at the beginning of pregnancy decides its course during pregnancy.If the disease is active at the beginning, it will worsen. If it is under control at the beginning of pregnancy, it will remain inactive.

IBD rarely can cause abortion or premature delivery.

Regarding the medications, 5ASA like mesacol can be continued if you are on these medications.Other medications should be stopped. Folate supplements should be taken to prevent the effects of 5ASA on the fetus.

Most of the times the pregnancy would be uneventful. But you need regular check up during pregnancy.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D

[margie30]

A related discussion, pregnancy complication GERD code was started.