Subject: Anti TNFs & pregnancy
I have recently transferred to a new rhemumatologist after I moved house, and my new doctor has recommended I try anti TNF treatment for my psoriatic arthritis. He made it sound like the perfect solution but I am of course wary! I had never heard of it before. I am a 29 year old female, diagnosed with PA as an 11 year old and have felt that my symptoms have been worsening over the last couple of years, especially during the summer. I have tried Sulphasalazine which gave me sores around my mouth so I had to stop. I did not want to go on Methotrexate as I am wanting to try for a family soon. Currently I take Naproxen. This new doctor was very positive that anti TNF would be the best option as it's safer when trying to conceive (he even hinted it might make it easier to conceive). However, the leaflets he gave me about the different options all said you should use contraception when having this treatment. The leaflets were a bit old - has there been more recent evidence that it is safe? I'd be very interested to hear people's views, either those who have been on anti TNFs and also those who have had a family whilst having treatment for arthritis. I will of course be raising these questions with the professionals but I'd really appreciate hearing from people who've been through it themselves. Thanks!
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