Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and other forms of inflammatory arthritis can have a "dramatic impact" on motherhood, according to a new study published in the journal, Arthritis Care & Research.

The study, "Experiences of mothers living with inflammatory arthritis", found that the impact of arthritis on mothers could be described in 4 interrelated categories:

1. The "sometimes I can, sometimes I can't" participation in mothering tasks.
2. The different types and levels of support from others.
3. The influence of the mother's arthritis on the family.
4. The challenge of balancing energy and fatigue.

The authors of the study hope that their data can help in identifying potential problems as well as help develop and put into practice strategies and ways for mothers to adapt to living with inflammatory arthritis.

The Spondylitis Association of America (SAA) brochure, "Ankylosing Spondylitis: Also a Woman's Disease", states, "Women's health is intimately connected to their roles as mothers, partners and daughters. Women are often the main providers for their children's health and well-being, and are usually the critical link to their health care system…Research tells us that women who have a solid support system do better than those who do not." (Note: You can order this brochure for free by clicking here. SAA Members can also download it now in the member area - click here.)

Women with ankylosing spondylitis sometimes are also concerned about the potential effect of AS on their pregnancy. From the Women's Health section of this website, "AS has no harmful effect on the course of pregnancy or on fetal well-being." That said, "Compared to healthy women, Cesarean section is more frequently performed in patients with AS. Inflammation or ankylosis of the sacroiliac joints is not a mechanical hindrance to giving birth. Also, hip disease or total hip replacement does not preclude normal delivery. Thus the severity of AS seems not a likely explanation for the increased rate of surgical delivery."

For more information on pregnancy and AS - including medication information and possible effects during pregnancy - please visit the Women's Health section by clicking here.

References: Experiences of mothers living with inflammatory arthritis. Catherine L. Backman et al. Arthritis Care & Research; Volume 57, Issue 3, p381-388.

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