New member with questions . . .

[bogieslilgirl]

Hello!

This is the first forum I have ever joined. I have had psoriasis since I was 9 (22 years). The older I become, the worse it seems to get. Each time it goes away - it comes back worse the next time (I have it everywhere with the exception of hands, feet and face).

I have stuck mostly with steroid creams, Dovonex, and I was on Neoral for a while - it worked well; but I am not comfortable with prolonged use of some of these medications.

I am looking into purchasing a UVB lamp through Richmond Light Company (I had one when I was younger at my parents' house and it worked well). I'm hoping it will produce some of the same results again.

My husband and I are thinking about having a baby. Is there any medication that anyone has taken while pregnant, that she believes is safe with no side effects? Just trying to get an idea before I pursue anything. To be honest, I am hesitant to put a child through what I went through in life . . . personal issues I need to get over :rolleyes: )

Thanks!

P.S. I have to admit - it is nice to see so many other people going through the same things in life! :)

[chaimFL]

If you are interested in buy a used unit there is one available - http://www.psoriasis.org/forum/showthread.php?t=19097

As far as treatments during pregnancy goes you'll have to consult with your OB/GYN for the most accurate information. I know they say not to used steroid creams during pregancy, but I also know that my wifes OB/GYN prescribed her a steroid cream (for non-psoriasis related issue) during her pregnancy.

They say the safest treatment during pregnancy is UVB.

[MikeK]

Hi Bogieslilgirl,

Welcome to the Board! :cool: Nice to meet you. I'm sorry to hear that your psoriasis is so severe. :( Good luck with getting a home light unit, light treatments are probably the safest and most effect treatment in the war against psoriasis.

You asked:Is there any medication that anyone has taken while pregnant, that she believes is safe with no side effects?Not that I'm aware of. All of the psoriasis medications that I'm aware of usually carry a disclaimer that's similar to the one about Dovonex:
The effects of Dovonex during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

It's not known whether Dovonex appears in breast milk. Because it may, you should use Dovonex with caution while breastfeeding.Source: http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/rxdrugprofiles/drugs/dov1648.shtml.

Even worse, some medications such as methotrexate and Soriatane are known to cause birth defects. (A woman shouldn't' become pregnant for a mimimum of three years after she stops taking Soriatane.)

Since your seriously thinking about having a child, your safest option is light treatments, oatmeal baths, and lots and lots of moisturizers.

I hope this helps.

Good luck. Keep us posted. Let us know if you have any other questions and please don't be a stranger.

Mike

[sunshine06]

Hi there! I'm new too (in fact this is my first post ever.) I had a baby almost 9 months ago and for some women (not me) psoriasis clears up during pregnancy. I actually haven't struggled with it that bad for several years but once I got preggo it flared up. But that is NOT the norm that I've heard of/read about so you may find that it calms down for you!

Also, I didn't take any medications....I was too afraid to (esp the steroids.) So I would lather on Eucerin a lot, after each shower. I just had to set my mind to getting past it and treating it after he was born. But I breastfed for 8 months so I couldn't use anything then either! (Actually my son's pediatrician told me that for the amount I had he thought it would be okay to use Ultravate or Dovonex but I was never comfortable with it.) I just weaned him a couple weeks ago and now am starting to try and control it.

Anyway, my point is that you MAY find that it subsides when you are pregnant.

BTW....I have had it for 22 years too! (got it when I was 8 and I'll be 30 in a few months) It IS nice to know there are others who struggle with this, I have never met anyone IRL that has!

[RichJ]

hi Bogieslilgirl,
sorry i can't help much but welcome to the p family. you will met alot of wonderful people on here and find alot of great info. welcome and nice to meet you.

have a good night all

richard