Family Planning Decision Making in People With Multiple Sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Reproductive Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affects individuals of reproductive age, making family planning a critical consideration.
• While MS does not directly impact fertility or pregnancy course, concerns about disease or medication risks persist.
• Understanding family planning decisions and educational needs in people with MS (pwMS) is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate family planning decision-making processes in pwMS.
• To identify unmet educational needs related to family planning for pwMS.
• To compare family planning behaviors of pwMS with the general population.

Main Methods:

• A survey of 332 pwMS across the USA, UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain was conducted.
• The survey utilized a smartphone-enabled panel and included 80 questions on family planning, pregnancy, and information sources.
• Results were compared with US and UN census data.

Main Results:

• pwMS were more likely to be childless than the general population, especially those aged 36-45.
• 56% of pwMS reported that MS affected their family planning decisions, with 21% altering pregnancy timing/number of children and 14% deciding against having children.
• Healthcare professionals were the primary information source (81%), yet 78% did not consider pregnancy timing when selecting treatment.

Conclusions:

• MS significantly influences family planning decisions among pwMS.
• pwMS are less likely to have children compared to the general population.
• There is a need for better integration of family planning discussions and educational support into MS care.