Family Planning in Women Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) are two prevalent autoimmune diseases of the central nervous system that predominantly affect women during childbearing age. Patients of childbearing age affected by conditions, such as MS and NMOSD, should consider the potential implications of pregnancy. The selection of treatment options should be carefully evaluated, considering preconception care and assessing the risk-benefit profile for both the mother and fetus. In recent years, there has been growing interest and need to address pregnancy and delivery in the context of these diseases, leading to the development of several internationally reported guidelines. The management of MS and NMOSD has entered a new era in Japan, with the inclusion of monoclonal antibodies and various biological agents, including B-cell depletion therapy, which is covered by insurance. Furthermore, there has been increasing focus on myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD), which has been reported to be associated with pregnancy. In this article, we aim to discuss the characteristics of MS, NMOSD, and MOGAD in the context of pregnancy, while providing updated insights on managing pregnancy and lactation with disease-modifying drugs and biologic agents.