Understanding how relapsing MS affects women
MS is a disease that impacts the central nervous system (CNS). MS can affect both men and women, but women are approximately 2–3 times more likely to develop MS than men.
What causes MS?
No one knows exactly what causes MS. Experts believe that a mix of genetic, environmental, hormonal, and lifestyle factors, as well as immune system dysfunction, can cause MS.
Other risk factors of MS may include:
- Having a close relative with MS, such as a parent or sibling
- Low vitamin D levels
- Smoking
- Certain infections
Why are women more at risk of multiple sclerosis?
Women have different levels of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen and progesterone may play a role in MS, depending on their levels and fluctuations during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Talk to your doctor to understand more about hormones and MS.
Women naturally have more active immune systems, which can protect against infections but may also increase the risk for autoimmune diseases like MS.
Signs and symptoms of MS
The signs and symptoms of MS in women are similar to those of men living with MS. They can vary widely because MS affects the CNS in different ways.
Early signs of MS include:
Women living with MS may also experience more fatigue, pain, and emotional changes like depression or anxiety than men living with MS.
While both men and women can have similar symptoms, women are more likely to experience symptoms that fluctuate with hormonal changes, such as during menstruation or pregnancy.
Symptoms of MS progression in men
Progression of MS in men tends to be faster than in women. This means disability progression can happen faster, especially in the later stages of MS. Men are also more likely to have motor problems, loss of coordination and balance, and cognitive difficulties. Talk to your healthcare provider to learn more about symptoms of MS in men.
Get to know the different forms of relapsing MS.
MS and pregnancy
During pregnancy, there are many hormonal changes that happen. Estrogen and progesterone levels rise and can change how the immune system acts.
Studies have shown that MS relapse rates go down during the third trimester of pregnancy. However, relapses can increase after delivery. A potential reason for this is because hormone levels decline after giving birth.
Can women with multiple sclerosis get pregnant and have children?
Women with MS can get pregnant safely, and fertility does not seem to be affected.
There is no prenatal test to find out the risk of transmitting MS. About 80% of people with MS do not have a family history of the disease.
If you’d like to learn more about pregnancy with MS, talk to your healthcare provider, as they are the best source of information.
If you become pregnant while taking VUMERITY, talk to your healthcare provider about enrolling in the BlossoMS Pregnancy Registry. You can enroll in this registry by calling
1-833-569-2635 or visiting www.blossomspregnancyregistry.com. The purpose of this registry is to monitor the health of you and your baby.
Living with MS as a woman
Living with MS presents unique challenges and considerations. Everyday life can be more challenging because of symptoms like fatigue, mobility issues, or cognitive changes. This means you may need specific routines, rest, and flexibility for daily tasks.
Despite these challenges, building strong support systems and practicing self-care can help.
Mental health in women with multiple sclerosis
- It’s common for people with MS to face mental health challenges. This can include anxiety, depression, or other mood changes
- Women living with MS have a higher risk of depression during pregnancy. This can cause prolonged symptoms of depression that last into the postpartum period
- It’s important to keep in mind that you’re not alone. Whether you are newly diagnosed with MS or considering switching treatments, there are resources to help you along the way. Biogen Support Services is also there for you if you have questions
Life expectancy of women
with multiple sclerosis
with multiple sclerosis
You can expect to have a normal life expectancy with MS.
If you’re a woman living with MS, know that support is out there. Learning all you can empowers you to make confident decisions with your healthcare provider.
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