Author Of 1 Presentation
P1122 - Family planning in women with multiple sclerosis: an important yet seldom approached issue (ID 1174)
Abstract
Background
There are scarce data from Argentina or Latin America that evaluate family planning (FP) in women with multiple sclerosis (WwMS).
Objectives
The purpose of this study was to assess family planning experience and knowledge among Argentinian women with multiple sclerosis
Methods
604 WwMS from 10 MS Argentinian centers were invited to answer an online survey. Demographics, disease characteristics, disease modifying treatment (DMDs), knowledge and influences on FP, parenthood desire, occurrence of unplanned pregnancies were collected.
Results
A total of 433 (71.68%) WwMS completed the survey, mean age 32.4 ±11.0 years, mean EDSS 1.88 ±1.99, disease evolution ≤ 3 years 29.9%, motherhood before MS diagnosis 42.1%. A total of 82 WwMS became pregnant after MS diagnosis and regarding last pregnancy, 63.41% were planned and 36.58% unplanned. 53% of unplanned did not received information on FP. 55.8% stopped DMDs after pregnancy confirmation. In WwMS of reproductive age, 230 ≤ 40 years were identified. 49,6% considered FP an important factor in choice of treatment. Out of 230, 88.69% experienced concerns regarding maternity and MS, 32.2% changed maternity longing after MS diagnosis and 48.69% have future motherhood desire. Age 32.37 ±5.56, MS evolution ≤5 years, EDSS<3, no pregnancy before MS diagnosis and neurologist discussed FP planning, were significantly associated with future desire for motherhood (p<0.05).
Conclusions
The research highlights that pregnancy remains an important concern among WwMS. More than half of unplanned pregnancies did not receive FP. FP should be discussed not only out of a desire for motherhood, but also as part of the treatment decision process.