Multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology

We understand the unique challenges MS presents at every stage of life. Our Age-Span Women’s MS Program addresses issues that tend to be increasingly important to women living with MS as they age, such as family planning, pregnancy, bladder and sexual dysfunction, and menopause. Our team of dedicated pharmacists, social workers, and rehabilitation specialists work together to curate resources and support for your unique preferences and needs.

Menopause is a stage of life that can uniquely affect patients with MS. While research is ongoing, and everyone experiences menopause differently, it may worsen some MS symptoms. Our neurologists are experienced in treating patients who are going through menopause while also navigating the challenges of neuroinflammatory conditions like MS.

Starting a family and going through pregnancy can be a very special and exciting time, but it can also come with unique challenges for those living with MS and related disorders. Our team of gynecologic specialists and neurologists are here to support you every step of the way. We understand that every patient has unique needs. That’s why we work closely with you to determine the type of support you’ll need throughout your family planning journey. If you’re not quite ready to conceive, we’ll help you identify the best method of birth control. When you’re ready to start a family, we’ll identify the best support and resources for your pregnancy and delivery.

While having MS doesn’t automatically mean you will have a high-risk pregnancy, we’re here to answer any questions you might have about what to expect before and during pregnancy, and after you give birth. If you have MS or a related disorder and are thinking about starting a family, your Penn Medicine care team will talk with you about:

• Choices for breastfeeding
• How active your MS symptoms are
• Options for delivery and anesthesia
• Which medications you should or shouldn’t continue to take

We understand that navigating MS care involves more than just your doctor. Our dedicated MS pharmacist and pharmacy technicians help connect the MS care you receive from your provider through your ongoing treatment. Because there are so many drug options used to treat MS, your pharmacy team helps to ensure you’re receiving the right course of treatment for you, guides you through managing and preventing side effects, and assists you in navigating the insurance process as quickly as possible. For those receiving IV treatment, some of our MS Center locations also have an onsite infusion suite so that you can receive your care in one convenient location.

Rehabilitation is an important aspect for those living with multiple sclerosis. We take a holistic approach to rehabilitation, considering all aspects of your care and support needs. This approach is designed to prevent you from experiencing complications and to help you maintain or improve your bodily function, cognition, and vocal abilities. Our specialists recognize the importance of treating your neurological condition while also making sure you have a good quality of life. Our rehabilitative support includes:

• Energy management
• Exercise programs
• Nutrition programs
• Occupational therapy
• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy

As part of our commitment to education, we empower patients and caregivers through our monthly patient programs, wellness programs, and support groups. These spaces enable information sharing and connection through discussion of topics including:

• Exercise
• Managing work and family while living with MS
• Mindfulness
• MS treatments
• Physical therapy

Our specialists also share their expertise through local and national seminars to better equip healthcare professionals in treating these rapidly evolving conditions.

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMO) and Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody associated diseases are inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system that are related to MS and require a special treatment approach. Penn Medicine experts are experienced in providing the latest care and research for people living with these disorders.

Penn Medicine offers a special Transition of Care Program and a unique clinic for children with NMO and MOG-antibody association diseases or undiagnosed white matter disorders. In collaboration with the multi-site Leukodystrophy Program at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), our team uses the latest advances in neurogenetics to successfully diagnose and provide seamless transition care for young adults.

As patients transition care from CHOP to Penn Medicine, they’re assigned a navigator and a social worker to serve as points of contact and help set up appointments, address insurance concerns, and help connect them to the full spectrum of resources at Penn. In addition, our Transition of Care Program offers screenings to help our specialists address:

• Depression and mood disorders
• Psychosocial support
• Sexuality and contraception

Our program offers additional one-on-one conversations to help our specialists connect you or your child to the right resources at Penn Medicine or the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

The clinic team is led by Jennifer Orthmann Murphy, MD, PhD and is supported by a genetic counselor and social worker. They draw from the latest advances in neurogenetics to successfully diagnose people with unexplained white matter disorders. And then work to support patients as they navigate the complexities of this challenging diagnosis.