Can pregnancy have temporary effects on the psoriasiswhether they are beneficial or negative?
What is psoriasis?
THE psoriasis is a skin illness which evolves through chronic inflammatory outbreaks, renewing the epidermis in an accelerated manner. This causes the appearance of red patches and peeling of the epidermis.
This disease is not contagious and is benign, but it can be difficult for those affected. 2 to 3% of the population is affected by this disease, generally people who are genetically predisposed.
Other factors can promote psoriasis flare-ups, such as friction, stress, trauma, infections, taking certain medications, and the weather. Alcohol and tobacco can make the disease worse.
THE psoriasis plaques are usually found on the elbows, knees, scalp, nails and sacrum.
How does psoriasis develop during pregnancy?
“During pregnancy, psoriasis can get worse” explains Anh-Chi Ton, a private midwife in Paris. “However, sometimes it gets better, we’re not sure why. But when psoriasis improves during pregnancy, there may be a relapse afterwards.”
In the majority of cases, psoriasis stabilizes or improves during pregnancy for hormonal reasons, but it is impossible to predict. However, a flare-up of psoriasis after childbirth is indeed to be expected.
What are the risks of psoriasis during pregnancy?
“Psoriasis poses no risk to pregnancy or the fetus” reassures Anh-Chi Ton. “We must continue dermatological follow-up as per usual. However, psoriasis treatments can be modified, as there are some that cannot be taken while pregnant. In this case, your dermatologist will prescribe ones that are compatible with pregnancy..” Be careful, however, not to makeself-medicationalways use treatments on medical prescription, informing your doctor of your pregnancy.
Also note that psoriasis can be passed on to children, since there is a genetic component, but the intensity of psoriasis during pregnancy has no effect on this. After giving birth, you can breastfeed with psoriasis if you take treatments that are compatible with breastfeeding.
Sources:
Anh-Chi Your midwife, Leuven medical, Dermo Medical Center, Ducray Laboratories
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