An essential resource for anyone with MS who is considering having a child.
Firsthand advice from a woman with multiple sclerosis who has successfully borne and raised a child.
Contains information that can change the lives of many of the 250,000 women in the United States suffering from MS.
Highly readable format puts the facts at your fingertips.
Diagnosed with MS at twenty-eight, author Judy Graham gave birth for the first time at the age of thirty-eight. Her new book Multiple Sclerosis and Having a Baby provides other women who are considering starting a family with the kind of genuine and useful insight that comes only from firsthand experience. Multiple Sclerosis and Having a Baby makes available not only the medical answers prospective parents need, but also the practical suggestions and sound advice that will help them meet the many unique and sometimes difficult challenges that face couples living with MS.
In this highly informative and readable book, Graham asks and provides answers for nearly every question a woman with multiple sclerosis might want to consider before having a baby. With the latest medical facts and valuable data culled from hundreds of interviews with women who have multiple sclerosis and are currently raising a child, Graham straightforwardly addresses such issues as the possibility of relapse, genetic predisposition to MS, sexuality and fertility, pregnancy, postnatal care, and breastfeeding as they relate to women with MS.
**Multiple Sclerosis and Having a Baby: A Comprehensive Guide to Conception, Pregnancy, and Parenthood for Women with MS** Navigating the journey of parenthood is a unique experience for every individual, but for women living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the path can present additional considerations and challenges. Judy Graham's "Multiple Sclerosis and Having a Baby: Everything You Need to Know about Conception, Pregnancy, and Parenthood" offers a lifeline of support, information, and real-world advice for women with MS contemplating or currently experiencing pregnancy and motherhood. This groundbreaking book, published by Healing Arts Press, fills a critical gap in available resources. Unlike generic pregnancy guides, Graham's work directly addresses the specific concerns and needs of women with MS, drawing not only on medical research but also on the author's own experiences. Diagnosed with MS at 28 and becoming a mother at 38, Graham imbues the book with an unparalleled sense of empathy and understanding. Her insights resonate with authenticity, providing reassurance and practical strategies that empower women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and family planning. "Multiple Sclerosis and Having a Baby" delves into a wide range of crucial topics, meticulously researched and presented in an accessible, easy-to-understand format. Key areas covered include: * **Conception and Fertility:** Explores the potential impact of MS and related medications on fertility, offering guidance on optimizing chances of conception and navigating fertility treatments if needed. * **Pregnancy Management:** Provides detailed information on managing MS symptoms during pregnancy, including strategies for minimizing relapses, adjusting medications (in consultation with healthcare professionals), and ensuring a healthy pregnancy for both mother and baby. * **Labor and Delivery:** Discusses considerations for labor and delivery, such as pain management options, potential complications related to MS, and the importance of communicating with the medical team. * **Postnatal Care:** Addresses the unique challenges of postpartum recovery for women with MS, including managing fatigue, addressing potential mood changes, and optimizing breastfeeding practices. * **Breastfeeding:** Offers comprehensive information on breastfeeding while managing MS, including considerations for medications, fatigue, and maintaining milk supply. * **Genetic Predisposition:** Explores the genetic aspects of MS and the potential risk of passing the condition on to offspring, providing balanced and informative insights. * **Sexuality and Relationships:** Addresses the impact of MS on sexual function and relationships, offering practical tips for maintaining intimacy and communication. * **Parenting with MS:** Provides invaluable advice on adapting parenting strategies to accommodate MS-related limitations, emphasizing the importance of self-care, support networks, and creative solutions. What sets this book apart is Graham's commitment to providing not only medical information but also emotional support and practical advice gleaned from her own experiences and those of other women with MS. She addresses the anxieties, uncertainties, and emotional challenges that often accompany pregnancy and motherhood for women facing chronic illness. The book is filled with firsthand accounts, tips, and strategies that offer real-world solutions for navigating the complexities of parenting while managing MS. "Multiple Sclerosis and Having a Baby" is more than just a medical guide; it is a source of hope, empowerment, and connection for women with MS who dream of starting or expanding their families. It is an essential resource for prospective parents, their partners, and healthcare professionals seeking to provide comprehensive and compassionate care. Whether you are newly diagnosed with MS and considering your options or are already pregnant and seeking guidance, this book will equip you with the knowledge, confidence, and support you need to embrace the joys of parenthood. This original edition paperback (ISBN: 9780892817887) is a valuable addition to any medical library or personal collection, providing timeless advice and fostering a sense of community among women navigating the unique challenges of MS and motherhood. It's a must-read for anyone seeking to understand and support women with MS on their journey to parenthood. Weighing in at approximately 240 grams and spanning 192 pages, this book is a comprehensive yet manageable resource filled with essential information.
