Taking Prednisone

chelsarellano

I just found out I have rheumatoid arthritis again (I had it as a kid but it eventually went away as I got older.) My rheumatoid doctor gave me a prescription for Prednisone and told me it is safe for pregnant women to take but it is ultimately up to me if I can handle the pain and do without it or if I decide to take the medication. My OB doctor said since it is such a low dosage (5 mg) she would be fine with me taking it as well. I just am having a hard time deciding if I should take the prednisone because some days the pain and swelling is almost intolerable but then other days I can manage it. Has anyone ever taken Prednisone or had to contemplate taking it while pregnant?

 Thanks!

Elisa312

I was on 10 mg about 6weeks after giving birth in 2009.  I stayed on it for about 6 mo, weaning to 5 mg, then 2.5, then, 2.5 every other day, until I fully weaned. 

Weaning sucks.   I don't know if I would have taken it while pregnant.  I am pregnant again, and have flareups, but I take tylenol, even though it does NOTHING.  It is mainly in my hands and wrists and fingers and shoudlers.  Sometimes elbows.  I wore braces last pregnancy, but am not at that point yet.

Prednisone is not something you want to be on long term.  I say wean off, or just take it on the bad days. 

Good luck.  Joint pain is a BEEEETCH.