Preparing for pregnancy

Hello everybody,

Sorry I haven't been around for a while and sorry I haven't replied to messages. I normally get email notifications of PMs but haven't done.

Anyway...preparing for pregnancy means coming off your meds and that is inevitably very very hard. I tried twice, the first time was a disaster in more ways than one, the second time was a resounding success!

I came off methotrexate with the help of an exceptionally good Rheumy nurse. She explained my options and I kept her up to date with where things were up to. I think that really helped me so if you can, I really advise you to get in touch with your team and have a point of contact like that.

I relied on IV steroids, kenalog (I think) suited me best and I had them at 4-6 week intervals. I also used paracetamol and was on Celebrex until a fortnight before I started trying to conceive. I managed a three month withdrawal and it was hard, so hard but so worth it in the end.

I think what I learned from my first attempt is that something had got to give. You can't expect to carry on as normal while you are unmedicated. I tried hard the second time to give me plenty of time out sitting in front of films, in the bath, anywhere where I could stop rushing around or force myself to relax and stay still. I also made sure I ate very well and got to know my cycles very well. I tried to see the time I had to wait in a positive light to be as prepared as possible that way for trying to conceive. It's important too that you are fully supported, Mr LV and I kept it secret from everybody (so be ready to tell lies about your condition if needs be, nobody could understand why I was suddenly declining at a rate of knots). Mr LV was a star, loads of support and understanding even at the most random teary moments!! What I guess I'm saying is be kind to yourself and ask at least your other half to give you that same kindness (and maybe be brave enough to tell you when you are doing too much or expecting too much of your body).

I really hope this helps and answers some questions. I'll try to get back on again if you have any questions etc.

I think being as positive as possible and keeping your eye on the prize is so important. I say that as somebody who did sit at the top of the stairs sobbing one night because it all hurt so much and I felt so tired but be ready for that and for picking yourself up. I also think it's important to remember that you will have to make allowances for what you can do or how well you can feel without meds is vital for getting through the withdrawal. I had tricky times when pregnant and also when arthritis reared it's head after birth but none have been as bad as the withdrawal period and yes, it was so so so worth it!! I won't be doing it again though- two little crawling monkeys is plenty for me and I don't want to risk triplets!!

Much love LV xx