Complications of IBD

It's best to get pregnant when your IBD is not active (in remission). Women with IBD usually don't have more trouble getting pregnant than other women. But if you have had a certain type of surgery to treat IBD, you may find it harder to get pregnant. Also, women with active IBD are more likely to miscarry or have preterm or low-birth-weight babies. If you are pregnant, work closely with your doctors throughout pregnancy to keep your disease under control. Many of the drugs used to treat IBD are safe for the developing fetus.

IBD can affect your life in other ways. Some women with IBD have discomfort or pain during sex. This may be a result of surgery or the disease itself. Fatigue, poor body image, or fear of passing gas or stool can also interfere with your sex life. Even though it may be embarrass­ing, be sure to tell your doctor if you are having sexual problems. Painful sex could be a sign that your disease is get­ting worse. And talking with your doctor, a counselor, or a support group may help you find ways to address emotional issues.

Prevention & Treatment

Currently, IBD cannot be prevented. But you can make some lifestyle changes that can ease your symptoms:

• Learn what foods trigger your symptoms and avoid them.
• Eat a nutritious diet.
• Try to reduce stress through physical activity, meditation, or counseling.

Researchers are studying many new treatments for IBD. These include new drugs, supplements of "good" bacteria that help keep your intestines healthy, and other ways to reduce the body's immune response.