What are the effects of myotonic dystrophy in pregnancy?

Typically worsens: Women with md will typically have worsening of symptoms and may develop difficulty with walking or breathing. There is an increased risk of miscarriage, problems with labor, anesthetic and postpartum bleeding. Since the disease is genetic, the newborn has to be watched for weakness, decreased tone or feeding difficulties that can indicate an affected baby.

Worsening weakness: The main symptoms of myotonic dystrophy (i.e., weakness and muscle wasting) may worsen during pregnancy, and they may interfere with proper progress of labor, sometimes presenting serious problems. There have been reports of muscle wasting in affected fetuses, and newborns likewise should be followed closely for the possible development of congenital myotonic dystrophy.