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Semin Neurol 2007; 27(5): 467-475
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-991128
© Thieme Medical Publishers

Movement Disorders in Pregnancy

Yvette M. Bordelon1 , Marsha Smith2
  • 1Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
  • 2Private Practice with Atlanta Neurological Associates, Rockdale Medical Center, Conyers, Georgia
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Publication History

Publication Date:
16 October 2007 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Movement disorders are not commonly seen during pregnancy. As a result, there are few studies on whether disease manifestations are affected by the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy or on the teratogenicity of commonly used medications for movement disorders on the developing fetus. This article discusses movement disorders that are seen only during pregnancy (chorea gravidarum) or that may present during pregnancy (restless legs syndrome), the effect that pregnancy has on symptoms and treatment (in Parkinson's disease, essential tremor, dystonia, tic disorders, and Wilson's disease), and the role of genetic testing for movement disorders in genetic counseling for pregnant women.

KEYWORDS

Parkinson's disease - tremor - Huntington's disease - dystonia - tics

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Marsha SmithM.D. 

1277A Wellbrook Circle

Conyers, GA 30012

Email: marsha74@bellsouth.net

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