Pregnancy and inflammatory bowel diseases from conception to delivery

Background : Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases frequently affect young people and are of major concern to them when envis- aging parenthood. Materials and methods : Using a literature review, we attempt to provide up-to-date solutions concerning conception, pregnancy, delivery and breastfeeding ; we also underline potential risks asso- ciated with such diseases, their treatment and management. Results and conclusion : Inflammatory bowel diseases are not incompatible with maternity or paternity, but foresight is recom- mended and future parenthood should be discussed with gastro- enterologists so as to adapt treatment and follow-up to ensure successful pregnancy outcome. (Acta gastroenterol. belg., 2009, 72, 238-244).