So the hard work is done now....right? Well, many women do feel a sense of relief after the birth, but some also feel sorrow or a combination of the two. If you have rheumatoid arthritis you may experience a flare up in the weeks following your pregnancy, at the same time as you are adjusting to your new role as a parent. Other diseases including scleroderma may become more active after delivery too.

If you are on medications that suppress your immune system, it is important that you are extra vigilant for infection as you may be more prone to it than others, but the majority of these infections can be cleared up quickly and easily with antibiotics.

Breastfeeding

If you would like to breastfeed, you should discuss the best medication choices with your doctor as certain medications can interfere with it. Feeding may mean sitting in the same position for a long time on a daily basis so make sure you are comfortable! This may involve using cushions under your elbows, a special support or a small bean bag.

Carrying and lifting

Many parents with arthritis find it easier to lift their baby using their larger joints, like their elbows or forearms. A sling can also be useful in the early stages, before babies become too heavy at around nine months. Other parents use baby carriers or pushchairs.

Equipment:

Deciding what equipment is suitable for both you and your child can take a bit of research. Try to choose things that are Easy to Use. The idea that reputable brands will always be suitable isn't necessarily reliable as most buggies and high chairs are not designed with parents who have arthritis in mind so remember to try before you buy.

Depending on the individual item, try to choose equipment that is: light, well-padded, equipped with wide shoulder and waist straps, easy to fold/unfold and move and equipped with handles that are comfortable to grip and easily adjustable.