56 msfocusmagazine.org Medicine & Research miscarriage in the general population. The findingswere published the journal Neurology. Dr.Thrower: Multiple sclerosis and pregnancy is a topic of great interest since many in the MS community are women of childbearing age. There are several issues that need to be considered when thinking about how MS may affect pregnancy and vice versa. It has long been noted that pregnancy seems to have a calming effect on MS. There is a higher risk of an MS relapse for three to six months afterthebabyisborn,butthemajorityofwomen with MS will not experience a postpartum relapse. Some studies have suggested that breast-feeding may prolong the protective effect of pregnancy in MS. In addition to these issues,womenwith MS considering pregnancy must look at medications and the potential risk of these treatments to their child. Tysabri is one of our most effective treatment options for managing relapsing remitting MS. Earlier studies have suggested that people stopping Tysabri may be at significant risk for relapses and/or new lesions on MRI. This risk appears to be highest at about three months after stopping Tysabri. So, how does one balance the desire for keeping MS under control with the potential risk of the medication to an early pregnancy? Our practice has been to have women continue Tysabri while they are family-planning. Pregnancy tests are done whenever the patient comes in for an infusion and once we know that the patient is pregnant, we would discontinue further doses ofTysabri. This study suggests that this may be the preferred approach. Discontinuing Tysabri before a woman starts trying to get pregnant may be associated with a higher risk of relapses. It would seem that when one looks at all of the risks and benefits, continuing Tysabri until a woman knows that she is pregnant would be the wisest course. Order Your Copy of RISE UP AGAINST MS Your Guide to the SIMPLE EVENT that Anyone and Everyone Can Do Call Rob Beasley at 800-225-6495 ®