Ankylosing Spondylitis

How AS and its Treatment May Affect Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Disclaimer: This page houses important information and resources pertaining to Ankylosing Spondylitis during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, including links to our evidence-based Fact Sheets. However, the resources here should not replace the care and advice of a medical professional.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a kind of arthritis that mostly affects the spine. The spinal joints (or vertebrae) become inflamed, which can lead to severe, chronic pain. It severe cases, it can also lead to new bone formation in the spine that results in sections of the spine becoming fused or stuck in one position. Other joints can also become involved with AS, including the shoulders, hips, ribs, and small joints located in hands and feet. Symptoms of AS can include swelling, stiffness, and pain. Some medications used to treat AS are known to cause birth defects or problems with breastfeeding, but others have not been associated with concern.

Reference: Spondylitis Association of America

Patients with axial spondyloarthritis frequently have active disease at some stage of pregnancy. Hence, many people find it more helpful to plan ahead and talk to their doctor about these issues prior to getting pregnant. We recommend working closely with your physicians to determine the best course of treatment while pregnant.

— Spondylitis Association of America

Join Our Ankylosing Spondylitis Study

If you’re pregnant and have AS, please consider enrolling into our observational study to give people who are pregnant better answers about how AS and its management can affect a pregnancy and a developing baby. You will not be asked to take or change any medications, and you can participate from the comfort of your home. 

Please see our library of resources below on Ankylosing Spondylitis during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

External Resources

• American College of Rheumatology: Pregnancy and Rheumatic Disease
• Arthritis Foundation: Ankylosing Spondylitis and Pregnancy
• Creaky Joints: Ankylosing Spondylitis and Pregnancy
• Spondylitis Association of America: Spondyloarthritis in Women

Partners

• Creaky Joints
• Canadian Arthritis Patient Alliance
• MyHealthTeams
• Spondylitis Association of America
• The Mighty