Other Neurologic Diseases in Pregnancy

Abstract

This chapter reviews several common neurological conditions in pregnancy. Patients with neurologic disease who are contemplating pregnancy should undergo preconception counseling. Most neurologic disease does not affect fertility, and those wishing to avoid pregnancy should use contraception. Non-pregnant people with neurological disorders are at increased risk for depression. Many patients with neurological and neuromuscular disease will have concerns that necessitate pre-delivery aesthesia consultation. Many autoimmune-based neurological conditions are at risk for worsening during the postpartum period. Breastfeeding should be encouraged, although assistance may be needed depending on level of injury. Spinal cord injury (SCI) is injury to the spinal cord, either by trauma or disease that results in a variety of pathologies. SCI is classified by its etiology and the level of the lesion. The higher is the functional level of the lesion, the higher the risk for complications and other medical conditions. Patients with pre-existing SCI who are contemplating pregnancy should undergo preconception counseling.