HS does not cause fertility problems and so will not affect your ability to conceive normally.

However, many of the drug treatments for HS are not suitable for women who are either trying to get pregnant or who are pregnant (see ‘How is HS treated?’) as they are either contraceptives or can cause damage the unborn baby (teratogenic). So if you are taking any medication to control your HS, you must talk to your doctor before trying to get pregnant so they can adjust your medication appropriately. This way, you will minimise any risk to you and your baby.

Due to the involvement of hormones in HS, many women find that their disease is more controlled whilst they are pregnant (see ‘What causes HS?’).

It is normal to gain several pounds of extra weight during a pregnancy and you shouldn’t worry about this at all. But remember, HS can be made more difficult to control by being overweight (see ‘Does anything make HS worse?’), so it is best to try to avoid gaining excessive weight whilst you are pregnant. A sensible diet and regular exercise rather than severe food restriction are the safest ways to do this. You should discuss this with your maternity specialist (midwife, GP or obstetrician).

It you have very severe disease affecting your perineum (area around the vaginal opening), or you have had previous surgical treatment to this area, your vaginal opening may have become very narrow. This can make the final stage of labour more difficult. If this is the case, a caesarean section may be recommended for the safety of you and your baby. However, most women with HS are able to have vaginal deliveries. Again, you should discuss this with your maternity specialist.

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