Women with RA & AS: Understanding Hormones, Fertility & Inflammation

  • Date: 15th March 2026
  • Venue: H.D. Auditorium, St. Xavier’s College, Navrang pura, Ahmedabad Gujarat – 380006
  • Event Ended
Women with RA & AS: Understanding Hormones, Fertility & Inflammation

Featured Penelists

Dr. Sapan Pandya

Dr. Sapan Pandya

Rheumatologist

Dr. Reena Sharma

Dr. Reena Sharma

Rheumatologist

Dr. Anuj Shukla

Dr. Anuj Shukla

Rheumatologist

Dr. Puja Srivastava

Dr. Puja Srivastava

Rheumatologist

Dr. Bhowmik Meghnathi

Dr. Bhowmik Meghnathi

Rheumatologist

Dr. Rutviz Mistry

Dr. Rutviz Mistry

Rheumatologist

Dr. Vishnu Sharma

Dr. Vishnu Sharma

Rheumatologist

Dr. Dhaiwat Shukla

Dr. Dhaiwat Shukla

Rheumatologist

Dr Pushpa Yadava

Dr Pushpa Yadava

Gynecologist

Event Overview

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is challenging. For women, the journey can be even more complex as hormones, reproductive health, pregnancy, and menopause influence disease activity in unique ways.

Antardhwani invites you to a dedicated All Women Health Event focused on understanding the biological, reproductive, and emotional dimensions of RA and AS. This event is designed to empower women with evidence-based knowledge, expert guidance, and a supportive community.

Whether you are newly diagnosed, planning pregnancy, navigating menopause, or supporting someone with RA or AS – this event is for you.

Event Agenda

  • The Biological Connection (Rheumatologist)
  • Rheumatology in Obstetrics & Gynecology (Gynecologist)
  • Physiotherapy & Movement Care
  • Q&A

Who Should Attend?

  • Women living with RA or AS
  • Newly diagnosed patients
  • Women planning pregnancy
  • Perimenopausal or menopausal women
  • Caregivers and family members

Image Gallery

Q & A

Can the medicine of RA & AS create issues in conceiving naturally?
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Some RA & AS medicines may need adjustment before pregnancy, but they usually don’t prevent natural conception. The condition itself can have a mild indirect effect, mainly if disease activity is high. With proper planning and medical guidance, most women can conceive safely.
Do RA and AS symptoms worsen during menstrual periods?
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Yes, some women may notice a temporary increase in joint pain, stiffness, or fatigue around their periods. This is often linked to hormonal fluctuations, especially the drop in estrogen, which can influence inflammation and pain sensitivity.

However, this experience varies from person to person some may feel worsening symptoms, while others may not notice any change. If the flare is frequent or severe, it’s advisable to discuss it with your doctor for better symptom management.

Is it safe to take pain relief medication for both menstrual cramps and arthritis-related joint pain?
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Yes, some pain relievers can help with both, but safety depends on your current RA/AS medications and dosage. Overuse or combination may cause side effects.
Am I at a higher risk of osteoporosis due to long-term Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)?
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Yes, long-term RA and AS can increase the risk of osteoporosis due to chronic inflammation, reduced mobility, and certain medications like steroids.

Regular bone health check-ups, adequate calcium and vitamin D, and an active lifestyle can help reduce this risk.

How can I differentiate between menopause-related joint pain and an RA flare, and what are the treatment approaches?
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Menopause-related joint pain is usually mild, more generalized, and linked with symptoms like hot flashes, sleep issues, or irregular periods. In contrast, an RA flare often causes persistent joint swelling, morning stiffness (lasting >30–60 minutes), warmth, and more localized joint pain.
Should I stop biologic medications before trying to conceive if I have Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) or Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)?
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Not necessarily. Many biologic medications can be continued safely during conception and, in some cases, even during pregnancy, depending on the specific drug and your disease condition.

Stopping biologics on your own may lead to a disease flare, which can make conception and pregnancy more difficult.

The best approach is to consult your rheumatologist and gynecologist before planning pregnancy. They will guide you on whether to continue, stop, or switch medications to ensure both disease control and pregnancy safety.

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