Can I carry a pregnancy to term and have a child despite having ALS?

A woman’s ability to conceive and a man’s fertility are not impaired by ALS. A pregnancy can also be carried to term despite the motor deficits resulting from ALS. The muscles of the uterus are not affected by ALS. However, one must consider the possibility of spasticity in the pelvic floor and lower extremities (adductor spasticity), which could affect childbirth and possibly require a cesarean section.

Furthermore, a reduction in respiratory capacity (hypoventilation) prior to delivery must be taken into account, as this would also have implications for delivery planning. After the child is born, breastfeeding is generally possible. The risk of ALS transmission through breast milk is considered to be ruled out. The composition of breast milk (in terms of its nutritional value for the child) remains unchanged. Physical care of the child may be limited by motor deficits in the hands and arms (for an affected mother or a father with the condition).

In this situation, it is especially important to encourage physical contact between the baby and the affected parent.