Can colitis (ibd) interfere with fertility in women?

Having inflammatory bowel problems may be a nagging issue if you want to have children. Yes, many are afraid that this intestinal inflammation will interfere with fertility and even make it difficult for couples to have children. So, is there actually an effect of intestinal inflammation on fertility? Is a woman experiencing this problem unable to have children?

Will colitis interfere with fertility?

Inflammation of the intestine, or what is commonly referred to by medical terms, namelyinflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a disease that usually occurs due to a wound in the intestine. Well, for those of you who experience this condition, there is really no need to worry that you will be infertile.

The reason is, it is known that about 25% of women with IBD can still get pregnant without any complications. This opportunity will be even greater if you check frequently and consult a doctor.

Even so, this condition might affect your future uterus, so you should see a doctor often. Reporting from UpTodate, a study states that a mother with colitis (Chron's disease) will give birth to a baby weighing under 2500 grams and premature.

Meanwhile, as many as 33% of pregnant women who have other types of intestinal inflammation, namely ulcerative colitis, are known to experience more frequent symptoms of recurrence during the first trimester.

Before starting a pregnancy with IBD disease

It is not impossible that you have children even though you have IBD. However, it's best to plan your pregnancy and discuss it with your doctor. The doctor will provide several options so that your pregnancy program has a higher chance of success.

So, for a successful pregnancy program, it's better to follow these tips:

Taking folic acid supplements can reduce the risk of birth defects. It is recommended to be consumed regularly before trying to get pregnant and continued until the final trimester.
Quit smoking
Limit caffeine intake to 250 milligrams per day before pregnancy until pregnancy lasts
Try to check your blood first for rubella, chickenpox, HIV, hepatitis B, or a disease that is passed on through your genes.

Can colitis drugs interfere with fertility and the pregnancy process?

Most drugs for IBD don't actually threaten your fertility, but there are some drugs that can affect it.

1. Not taking steroid medication

If you've been taking off steroids to treat colitis, then now is the perfect time to have children. It is recommended not to use steroid drugs for 3-6 months.

This condition should be taken advantage of while preventing the spread of colitis during pregnancy. Therefore, it is very important that you continue to take medications that have been recommended by your doctor so as not to interfere with your fertility period.

2. Avoid certain drugs

In certain cases, drugs are very concerned about pregnancy programs. However, there are some considerations and exceptions to the dosages of medication that can be used.

a. Aminosalicylates

Aminosalicylates are not harmful to the fetus, but this type of drug can cause symptoms of nausea and a burning and burning sensation in your chest.

b. Corticosteroids

Usually, doctors recommend reducing the dose of this drug because it is not suitable for pregnant and lactating women.

c. Immunomodulator

Ask your doctor first whether it is okay to take this drug. Even in standard doses, the use of immunomodulators must still be considered, especially for women with IBD who wish to become pregnant.

d. Antibiotics

If possible, try to avoid antibiotics.

e. Thalidomide

This medicine can cause birth defects and death of the fetus. If you have colitis, avoid this treatment so it doesn't interfere with your fertility.

How to treat the womb when suffering from colitis?

All pregnant women, including those suffering from colitis, of course have to pay attention to the fetus and themselves to stay healthy. Therefore, here are some things that must be considered:

1. A regular diet

Make sure you are getting enough calories, vitamins and minerals to meet the daily needs of yourself and your fetus. If you have multiple allergies that occur during pregnancy, immediately discuss it with your doctor

2. Take supplements if needed

One of the most important nutritional content is folic acid, especially for women who use sulfasalazanine drugs. However, it's better to first discuss with your obstetrician and nutritionist to know what to eat and avoid.

Vitamin D also plays an important role in maintaining your health during pregnancy. Don't forget to ask your doctor how much vitamin D you need.

In addition, women with IBD are usually iron deficient. Therefore, iron supplements will usually be recommended for you to get extra substances.

In conclusion, intestinal inflammation can indeed interfere with fertility in women, but only under certain conditions, such as the consumption of steroid drugs. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with your doctor to find out how much of these opportunities can be used.