Pregnancy & Women's Health in Dysautonomia, Svetlana Blitshteyn MD, Neuro Connect Summit 2019

Dr. Svetlana Blitshteyn's presentation at the Neuro Connect Summit 2019 focuses on women's health, specifically regarding dysautonomia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), with an emphasis on pregnancy and sexual health. Dysautonomia, which predominantly affects women of childbearing age, can profoundly impact biological, psychological, and social aspects of life, including menstruation, pregnancy, sex, and menopause. Dr. Blitshteyn discusses myths related to POTS and pregnancy, such as the misconception that POTS is a contraindication for pregnancy, and highlights the variable clinical course of POTS during and after pregnancy. The talk also covers common gynecological issues in POTS, EDS, and MCAS patients and emphasizes the importance of medical consultation and planning for women considering pregnancy. Additionally, the presentation underscores the need to address sexual dysfunction in chronic illness management and offers practical tips for patients to maintain a healthy sexual relationship. Lastly, Dr. Blitshteyn calls for more research to better understand these conditions in women's health contexts.