Assisted Reproductive Technology in Multiple Sclerosis and Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (ARTiMS) study. A prospective, longitudinal study.

Very few studies have investigated the use of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Neuomyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorders (NMOSD). It is not clear if there is an increase in disease activity after ART, and if there is, whether this is due to hormone treatment, failed cycles or the prolonged cessation of therapy. Additionally, there is currently no guidelines to manage sub-fertility in women with (ww) MS/NMOSD. The decision to cease therapy or not, and the subsequent period of time off treatment is not standardized and is best described as uncoordinated. Determining the key aspects of fertility treatment and MS treatment coordination may assist in developing a pathway for care of this growing cohort of wwMS/NMOSD, as well as provide opportunities to measure and treat hormone level variability and increased stress, anxiety, and depression. This study will observe women who are planning to use some form of ART to fall pregnant over a three-year period. This will allow for two years to fall pregnant and at least 12 months follow up (into the first trimester post-partum for successful pregnancies.) We will assess blood based biomarkers to determine if there are indicators for both disease activity and pregnancy success.