Important Information About Psoriasis And Your Pregnancy To Discuss With Your Doctor

As psoriasis sufferer, managing your condition can be particularly challenging during pregnancy and immediately after giving birth. It is important to note that some of the treatment options that you have used prior to conception will not longer be appropriate or safe. A recent study determined that nearly half of the pregnant women with psoriasis that were polled saw an improvement in their symptoms and less than a fourth of them reported their symptoms worsening. Fortunately, there are safe treatments for psoriasis that you can access during your pregnancy.  

#1-Manage Your Anxiety Or Stress In New Ways To Limit Psoriasis Symptoms

One of the dirty little secrets that experienced mothers do not always discuss with the mothers-to-be around them is that pregnancy is not always joyful and peaceful. About 15% of pregnant women have reported significant levels of stress, depression and anxiety. In addition, experts believe that many other expectant mothers experience one of those issues and never report it.   

Since anxiety and stress are known triggers for psoriasis, treating your psoriasis can be an on-going battle. Talk with your obstetrician to find the least invasive way to manage your stress and anxiety, such as massage, exercise, support groups and counseling. After giving birth, it will be useful to try those activities again, as they may provide better results after pregnancy.

#2-Choose New Treatment Options

The National Psoriasis Foundation has reported that topical treatments that are designed to hydrate the skin and eliminate itching should be the first line of defense. If they are not successful, occasionally using small doses of topical steroids is acceptable. If you plan to nurse, be sure to avoid applying the steroids near your breasts, as it could transfer to the baby.

Another option that has often been useful for addressing psoriatic symptoms during pregnancy is ultraviolet phototherapy. Narrow band ultraviolet therapy is preferred, but broad-band UVB is also acceptable. Always use facial, cleaning and personal care products with as few chemicals, perfumes and dyes as possible, as they can make the symptoms worse.

Be sure to limit your phototherapy to the length of time recommended by your doctor, being sure to use sunscreen on your face and neck while doing so. You cannot use or ultraviolet light A, due to an increased risk of side effects to the baby. 

#3-Plan For After You Give Birth

The discomfort associated with giving birth and the hormonal changes that occur at the same time are incredibly stressful. Postpartum depression is a concern for at least 11% of women in the United States each year. Medication to help you emotionally, if needed, may help reduce the physical signs of your psoriasis.

In conclusion, many women notice an improvement in their psoriasis during. If you are not fortunate enough to be one of those women, there are still a wide variety of safe treatments that can minimize your symptoms during pregnancy and after giving birth.

To learn more about psoriasis, contact a doctor like Henry D. McKinney M.D.

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