by KYW's medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough
Inflammatory bowel disease is a serious problem of the gastrointestinal tract that can be life altering.
An interesting point is that many women are diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease or ibd during their childbearing years. This condition can compromise a woman’s ability to conceive and remain pregnant. But as we have learned more about ibd the problems don’t seem as severe.
New information suggests that prospective parents shouldn’t be discouraged. In fact the outlook can be quite good. The findings are that there have been reports of preterm delivery, but it is usually days, not weeks, and even when there is low birth weight it is usually ounces not pounds.
Here is another argument for prenatal care. This care before and during pregnancy can help offset many problems that occur with delivery. It is definitely worth looking into.