Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease & Pregnancy: Key Things to Know

Many women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may wonder if they can safely have a baby with Crohn’s or colitis, so here are answers to the most common questions.

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Crohn’s Disease are chronic conditions that can be difficult to manage. For women who are pregnant, the challenge can be even greater. This article will cover some of the key things to know about Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, and pregnancy.

Can You Have a Baby if You Have Crohn’s Disease or Colitis?

It is a common concern for women with Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis to worry about the impact that their condition may have on their pregnancy and their unborn child. These chronic conditions can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue, which can make it challenging for women to manage their condition and care for themselves during pregnancy.

The good news is that most women with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can have a successful pregnancy. However, it’s important to consider the information below and work closely with your healthcare team to manage your symptoms and to minimize any potential risks for you and your baby.

Does Crohn’s or UC Get Worse in Pregnancy?

Pregnant women with IBD are not more likely to have a flare-up than women who are not pregnant. In fact, some women’s symptoms may even improve during pregnancy.

If a woman has active symptoms when she becomes pregnant, she may have stable symptoms, improvement, or worsening.

Can Crohn’s Disease or UC Cause Birth Defects?

Babies born to mothers with IBD are more likely to be born early and weigh less than babies born to healthy mothers, especially if a woman experiences severe symptoms during pregnancy. They are also more likely to be delivered by C-section.

Some studies have shown that women with IBD are more likely to have complications during pregnancy or childbirth. However, there is limited evidence to suggest that babies born to mothers with IBD are more likely to have birth defects.

Biologics During Pregnancy

Biologic medications, like Humira and Remicade, are medications that are commonly used to treat IBD.

Active IBD is associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and fetal loss. Except for methotrexate and tofacitinib, the risk of a flare outweighs the risk of IBD medication. Maintenance of remission from IBD should be the main focus of care. However, it is also not advised that a woman become pregnant when starting a new medication.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and are taking a biologic, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of continuing your treatment during pregnancy. In general, it’s important to work closely with your doctor to manage your symptoms and to minimize any potential risks to your developing baby.

Nutrition for a Healthy Pregnancy When You Have IBD

If you have IBD and are pregnant, it is important to pay close attention to your nutrition to ensure that you and your growing baby are getting the nutrients you need while also managing your IBD symptoms.

1. Eat a balanced diet
2. Eat small, frequent meals
3. Consider supplements
4. Stay hydrated
5. Consult with an IBD dietitian

For more tips for nutrition during pregnancy when you have IBD, please visit the full blog post here:

https://eatwellcrohnscolitis.com/ulcerative-colitis-crohns-disease-pregnancy-key-things-to-know/