Ankylosing Spondylitis (HLA-B27 +ve) and IVF/PGD

willtherebe4

1 Posts
Reply Posted on: Jul 22, 2013 at 12:14am
Hi,
I am 33 and have previously been diagnosed with AS and confirmed positive for HLA-B27 gene (although I am aware not all AS sufferers carry the gene so im not sure if that makes a difference in terms of fertility). I have 3 healthy sons and have also had 3 MC (at 10wks / 6wks / 5.5wks which were preg 1 / 2 / 5). I fall pregnant relatively quickly but whether I will stay pregnant is always the mystery.
I am considering IVF next year and am wondering what considerations I should be aware of. The disease is active at the moment but I do know that my diet / exercise has a big influence in controlling it. I am at a very healthy weight and if I diet strictly and exercise my weight only fluctuates by a maximum of 3 kg. I am not currently taking any medication other than paracetamol / ibuprofen as required. I am due to see my Rheumatolgist in a few weeks.

- Is there any difference whether my disease is active or not at the time of cycling?

- Should I expect to have fewer "normal" embryos for transfer?

- Is there anything I can do or supplements I can take to improve my chances of a successful transfer (aspirin??).

Any advice you could offer would be most appreciated.

Thankyou :)

Dr. Braverman

2026 Posts
RE: Ankylosing Spondylitis (HLA-B27 +ve) and IVF/PGD Posted on: Jul 22, 2013 at 6:05am
We have had success with AS . But of course you need to be sure it is the AS that is the problem (but I do think that is most likely). I would need to get testing on you to see where we would need to focus the treatments. I would want to look at cellular and antibody profiles on you as well as a complet cytokine profiel (serum and cellular). But Im sure I can at least give you answers. At that point I would be able to recommend supplements as well.
If you would like my help please fill out the consult form on our website.
Braverman Medical Team
Braverman Reproductive Immunology P.C.