9. Pregnancy and PBC: Navigating Reproductive Health
Navigating reproductive health presents unique challenges for women with Primary Biliary Cholangitis. While PBC typically affects women in their middle years, some may be diagnosed during their childbearing years. Concerns often arise about the effects of PBC and its treatments on fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
PBC itself does not appear to significantly reduce fertility, but the associated liver dysfunction can lead to complications. Pregnant women with PBC require close monitoring for liver function and fetal development, often necessitating a multidisciplinary approach involving hepatologists, obstetricians, and other specialists.
The management of PBC during pregnancy must be carefully balanced to ensure the well-being of both mother and child. Ursodeoxycholic acid, the primary medication used in PBC treatment, has been used during pregnancy with no reported adverse effects on the fetus, but decisions about treatment during pregnancy must be personalized.
Pregnancy can alter the course of autoimmune diseases, and in some cases, PBC symptoms may improve due to the immunological changes that occur. However, postpartum flares are a possibility, highlighting the need for postnatal follow-up and support.
Discussions about family planning and reproductive health are integral to the care of women with PBC, emphasizing the need for patient-centered approaches and informed decision-making in reproductive health for women living with this condition. (9)
