Tips for Pregnancy and Postpartum with Rheumatoid Arthritis with Mariah Leach

This episode includes discussions about:

• How to decide whether or not to have children while living with a chronic illness
• Tips for comfortable sex with chronic pain
• Frequently Asked Questions about pregnancy with rheumatoid arthritis, including how to find out which medications are safe
• Cheryl and Mariah’s experiences with childbirth and C-sections
• How frequent is the postpartum flare-up and how can it be prevented?
• Advice for feeding a newborn with rheumatoid arthritis, including discussions about ergonomics, breast versus bottle feeding and “fed is best.”
• Practical tips for managing the physical and energy demands of new babies including diapering, clothing, baby wearing and more!

This is part one of a two part series - later, Mariah and Cheryl will share tips for parenting toddlers / “big kids” and managing mental health as chronically ill parents!

Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

This episode is brought to you by Rheum to THRIVE, an online support group and education program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease become more confident, supported and connected. 

Episode links:

• Resources discussed in this episode: 
  • Mother To Baby - nonprofit resource for medication safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • Past episodes of Arthritis Life pod
  • Mariah’s book review from rheumatology nurse practitioner Iris Zink Sex – Interrupted: Igniting Intimacy While Living With Illness or Disability
  • HealtheVoices - patient advocacy conference Mariah attended 
• Mariah’s links:
  • Twitter & Instagram: @mamasforward
  • Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/mamasforward
  • Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mamasfacingforward
• Arthritis Life Podcast, Practical Tips and Positive, Realistic Support - Facebook group
• Join the waitlist for Rheum to THRIVE an online support group and education program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease become more confident, supported and connected. 

For full episode details, including a detailed episode breakdown, go to: https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/2021/06/17/tips-for-pregnancy-and-postpartum-with-rheumatoid-arthritis/