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Having a baby with IBD


Sat, October 24, 2009 6:03 PM

My husband has Crohn's and I have UC.  From what I have read there is about a 40% chance that children we have will suffer from IBD.  My question to all of you who suffer as well is this;  Is it selfish to bring a child into the world knowing these odds?  It is our dream to have children, but knowing this percentage has made me unsure if it is the right thing to do.

Thank you for your feedback

FPO allison dh
Joined Oct 24, 2009

Mon, December 28, 2009 1:23 AM

 Reply posted for Allison DH.

I have UC but no one in my family has any IBD issues.  I think that though they say it can be genetic, it's really just the luck of the draw.  There's no way to tell who will get it and who won't.  I too have a baby, she's almost 3 months old now, and I hope and pray that she never has to deal with this disease but I wouldn't want my life to be without her.  May you be at ease with whatever choice you make!

FPO babs31
Joined Jun 14, 2008

Wed, November 18, 2009 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for Allison DH.

Maybe you shouldn't necessarily "try" to have a baby. Just enjoy each other without any precautions and if it happens then it was meant to be. Having children is a wonderful gift. I don't think you should not have children just because the child might get a disease. There are plenty of other diseases that your child "might" get, you just can't control it. Just do what you feel is right and follow your heart. You will know the right answer. Just ask yourself "would I be completely happy without a child?"  If the answer is no then maybe you know what the right answer is then! Just make a decision you and your husband can be happy with. Good luck with whatever you decide!!

FPO turtle
Joined Mar 7, 2008

Mon, October 26, 2009 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for Allison DH.

I have Crohn's and had a son almost 10 months ago. I know there is a chance he could get it, and I worry about it all the time. But I thought of it this way-Yes, there is a chance if I have a baby, they could get it. But I want a family, and I'm willing to take that chance. You said there's a 40% chance your baby will get it? You've got a 60% chance they won't. :) It's a tough decision, follow your heart.

FPO kaedensmom
Joined Mar 12, 2009

Mon, October 26, 2009 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for Allison DH.

I agree with your other advice, it's a personal decision, talk it over with God, and genetic counseling will help you even more if you want more concrete odds.  I have UC, the chance of my 8 month old son having UC is 9%, the father does not have UC or CD.  Research available on this website talks about the importance of breastfeeding and helping your child to avoid these diseases too (I have chosen to breastfeed through atleast one year)!  I pray every night that my son doesn't end up with this, then I kiss him, and kiss him, and he smiles!--melts your heart!  I know this is a difficult decision and I will remember you all in my prayers!

FPO chas7999
Joined Oct 1, 2009

Sun, October 25, 2009 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for Allison DH.

Do what your heat tells you to.   It was a lifetime dream of mine to be a Mom.   The Lord blessed me twice.   I am part of this community because my little girl is a CD patient.   Please know I wouldn't trade her for the world!   There was no family history and there is no cure yet, but we are living life.   Again, it is a very personal choice, but listen to your heart.

Good luck to you!

Lizzies Mom

FPO lizzies mom
Joined Sep 9, 2009

Sat, October 24, 2009 11:51 PM

 Reply posted for Allison DH.

It's such a personal issue but maybe your doc can give you a referral to a genetic couselor who can help you.

FPO ez
Joined Nov 9, 2008

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