The Effects of Fibromyalgia Syndrome on Physical Function and Psychological Status of Pregnant Females

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the frequency and most common symptoms of fibromyalgia syndrome (FS) among pregnant females and determine the impacts of FS on physical functioning and psychological status. Patients and methods: A total of 360 pregnant females (mean age 26.5 years, range 19 to 42 years) were included. The subjects were divided into two groups in terms of having (FS group; n=136; mean age 27 years; range 19 to 41 years) or not having FS (control group; n=224; mean age 26.5 years; range 20 to 42 years). The impact of FS on physical functions was evaluated using Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire. Psychological statuses of the subjects were evaluated using State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire, and Beck Depression Inventory. Results: Low back pain was the most common complaint while fatigue was the most common symptom in FS group. FS group had higher levels of pain and physical disability (p<0.001) and also higher values of anxiety, fear of childbirth, and depression (p<0.001, for all values) compared to control group. Symptom severity and physical function scores were significantly correlated with increased levels of pain, depression, anxiety, and fear of childbirth (p<0.001, for all values). Conclusion: Fibromyalgia syndrome is common among pregnant females. The existence of FS in pregnancy is a severe factor contributing to maternal stress, anxiety, and depression. Therapeutic measures for fibromyalgia syndrome should be well-established to support healthy pregnancy and good child health outcome.

The Importance of Daily Activity for Reducing Fibromyalgia Symptoms: A Retrospective “Real World” Data Comparison of two Multimodal Treatment Programs

“…The P12 program had initially been created under the assumption that a less intensive program is more suitable for patients suffering from fibromyalgia, as it has previously been shown that fibromyalgia patients have limited physical resources. [ 26 , 27 ] Our results can thus encourage healthcare providers to offer a more intensive therapy.…”

Fibromyalgia in Pregnancy: Neuro-Endocrine Fluctuations Provide Insight into Pathophysiology and Neuromodulation Treatment

“…However, these studies did not confirm whether any of these patients had pre-existing FM. Other studies demonstrated that pregnant females with pre-existing FM experienced an aggravation of symptoms throughout pregnancy, and particularly in the third trimester, the symptoms were at their worst [46][47][48]. There were also reported changes to symptoms in the postnatal period, while hormonal changes connected with abortion, use of hormonal contraceptives, and breastfeeding did not modulate FM symptom severity [45,49,50].…”