Myasthenia Gravis: Family Planning, Pregnancy and Delivery

Myasthenia gravis affects women younger than 40 about three times more frequently than men. Therefore, questions about family planning, pregnancy and delivery are common for these patients and their treating physicians. The outcome for mother and child depends a good deal on knowledge of the influence of pregnancy on myasthenia, therapy options, the relationship between the disease and delivery and the newborn. This paper provides an overview of these situations to support women with myasthenia gravis and their physicians in their decision-making regarding desire for children, the course of pregnancy and delivery and neonatal considerations. With thorough advice, good preparation and support of partners and families, the desire for a child can come true for patients with myasthenia gravis. Taking special precautions and with interdisciplinary treatment, the risks for mother and child can be minimized.