During which period does rheumatoid arthritis tend to improve?

• A. Postpartum
• B. Menopause
• C. Pregnancy
• D. After NSAIDs

Answer: (C)

Pregnancy often brings a noticeable improvement in rheumatoid arthritis because the immune system shifts toward a more anti-inflammatory state to tolerate the fetus. Hormonal changes during pregnancy—higher levels of estrogen and progesterone, along with placental factors—contribute to reduced joint inflammation and swelling, especially in the second and third trimesters. However, once the baby is born and hormone levels normalize, disease activity commonly returns or even worsens in the postpartum period. Menopause and NSAID use don’t produce the same consistent pattern of improvement; menopause has variable effects, and NSAIDs help symptoms but don’t alter the disease course.