Parkinson symptoms in pregnancy

Overview

Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that affects movement. It happens when certain nerve cells in the brain slowly stop working properly, leading to a lack of a chemical called dopamine. In pregnancy, some women with Parkinson’s wonder how their symptoms may change and what this means for their baby.

No, Parkinson’s disease is uncommon in women of childbearing age. It is much more common in older adults, so pregnancy with Parkinson’s is rare.

It affects women who have Parkinson’s disease and become pregnant. Most of these women are diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson’s, meaning they developed it before age 50.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Tremor (shaking), usually in a hand or arm
• Stiffness in the arms, legs, or trunk
• Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
• Balance problems or falls
• Changes in walking (shuffling or dragging steps)
• Fatigue or feeling very tired
• Changes in posture
• Difficulty with fine movements, such as writing or buttoning clothes

Symptoms in older adults

• The same movement symptoms as in younger people, but they often start gradually and may be mistaken for normal ageing.
• Older adults may also experience memory changes, constipation, or sleep problems.
• In older adults, falls are a bigger concern and may lead to serious injuries.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of Parkinson’s is not fully understood, but it likely involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
• In most cases, there is no single known cause.
• Pregnancy itself does not cause Parkinson’s, but the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy can affect how symptoms feel.

Risk factors

• Older age — though young-onset Parkinson’s exists
• Having a family history of Parkinson’s
• Being male (but this article is about women who are pregnant)
• Certain environmental exposures — though this is still being studied

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you are pregnant and notice any sudden or severe change in your symptoms, such as new rigidity, severe tremor, or difficulty moving
• If you have difficulty swallowing, breathing, or keeping food down
• If you fall and hit your head or have unexplained bruises

Book a routine appointment if:

• Have regular check-ups with both your neurologist and your obstetrician during pregnancy.
• Make a plan before getting pregnant, if possible, to adjust medications safely under medical supervision.
• Talk to your care team if your medicines make you too nauseous to take them.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose Parkinson’s by listening to your history and doing a careful neurological examination. During pregnancy, the diagnosis is the same, but the care team will also monitor the pregnancy closely.

Tests that may be done

• Neurological examination — testing movement, coordination, reflexes, and balance
• Blood tests — to rule out other conditions
• Imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan — these are sometimes used to rule out other brain problems, though not always needed

What to expect at your appointment

If you are diagnosed with Parkinson’s before or during pregnancy, you will be referred to a team of specialists, including a neurologist and a high-risk pregnancy specialist. They will work together to adjust your care and keep both you and your baby safe.

Treatment

Treatment during pregnancy needs careful balancing. The goal is to control symptoms enough for you to stay safe and comfortable, while also protecting the developing baby. Any treatment decisions must be made in partnership with your healthcare team.

Self-care at home

• Take medicines exactly as prescribed — never stop or change doses on your own
• Do gentle exercises like walking, stretching, or prenatal yoga if your care team says it is safe
• Plan rest breaks during the day to manage fatigue
• Eat small, frequent meals if nausea is a problem
• Use safety aids like handrails or a walker if your balance is affected

Medical treatments

Medications for Parkinson’s can be used during pregnancy, but the choice, dose, and timing are very important. Some medicines may need to be changed or adjusted during pregnancy. This is always done by a specialist, considering the risks and benefits for both mother and baby. Never start, stop, or change any medication without professional medical advice.

When is surgery considered?

In some cases, a treatment called deep brain stimulation (DBS) may be considered. DBS involves implanting a small device that sends electrical signals to the brain. This is usually not started during pregnancy, but if you already have DBS, your team will help you manage it throughout pregnancy and delivery.

Living with this condition

Take each day as it comes. Communicate openly with your care team about how you feel. Plan your activities around your energy levels, and accept help when you need it. It is okay to ask for practical support with daily tasks.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay as active as safely possible — activity helps with stiffness and mood
• Attend all prenatal and neurology appointments
• Ask for a physiotherapy referral to help with balance and strength
• Consider occupational therapy to simplify daily activities
• Join a support group, either online or local, for people living with Parkinson’s

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fibre, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein. Stay well hydrated. Gentle exercise, such as walking or swimming, can improve movement and reduce stress. Speak to your healthcare team before starting any new exercise routine.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Pregnancy can bring mixed emotions, and living with a chronic condition adds extra stress. It is common to feel anxious, down, or overwhelmed. Talk about your feelings with your care team, and ask for support. Your healthcare provider can point you to counselling services.

Prevention

There is currently no proven way to prevent Parkinson’s disease. If you already have Parkinson’s, the focus is on managing symptoms safely during pregnancy and ensuring good care for both you and your baby.

Complications

If left untreated

• Worsening stiffness and slowness could make it harder to care for yourself and your baby
• Balance issues can increase the risk of falls and injury
• Untreated or poorly managed symptoms may lead to poor nutrition, stress, or depression
• Stopping medicines suddenly can be dangerous and cause severe rigidity or a life-threatening reaction

Long-term outlook

With the right support, many women with Parkinson’s have a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby. It may take extra planning and teamwork, but you can face the future with hope.

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