Scoliosis and c-section

Joness11

Hello. So I have a question about scoliosis and c-sections. (I did use the search bar and found one similar post from 2012, and I was hoping to get some more recent experiences/opinions, so please don't crucify me for posting this! )

I'm a FTM, almost 20 weeks along. I had a severe scoliosis S-curve as a kid and had to have spinal fusion surgery. They fused 4 vertebrae between the thoracic and lumber area and put in rods. I still have between a 30-40 degree curve. My spine is pretty weak, the curvature has actually gotten worse from what it was right after surgery. And I have problems with my pelvic bones twisting, which makes one side of my pelvis measure higher than the other.

I've always had back pain since the surgery, and so far I've had some bad pain right around/above the fusion area. But my main concern is whether a c-section is a better option. I'm going to discuss it with my OB at my next appointment, but I'm just wondering if anyone here has experience with pregnancy and scoliosis? And if a c-section was recommended or scheduled ahead of time? I'm honestly ok with scheduling a c-section and just planning on going that route but I'm not sure if my OB will agree.

gemini2005

My SIL has pretty bad scoliosis and just had her 2nd c-section. When she went into labor the first time, her water broke naturally and she hoped for a drug free birth. After many hours, they realized the baby couldn't desend due to her pelvis being out of line and she agreed to an epidural. The anesthesiologist poked her upwards of five times since he couldn't find the epidural space. She finally got some relief and hoped that her body would relax and she would make progress. After many more hours of no progress, she got a c-section. They used the suction to get the baby out since he was so wedged in there from the long labor. After they released her from the hospital, she developed a debilitating headache from the epidural. For her second pregnancy, she planned a c-section. Everything went smooth except the spinal made her hands numb for hours after (something to do with the anesthetic not leaving her body?) and she was irritated they kept the baby away while she was in recovery. Overall, she was glad to get a c-section. I hope things go smooth for you whatever decision you make. I remember she did lots of yoga to help realign her body after the pregnancy and it helped a lot.

WiseUsagi

I'm going to follow this post. I also have scoliosis (although mine is pretty mild-moderate) and didn't even think about delivery issues. My doctor hasn't said anything but I'll definitely bring it up at my next appointment.

I can definitely say I have noticed an increase in back/neck pain since my belly has started growing so hopefully this isn't an indicator of issues to come.

Joness11

Thanks for the replies. Yeah I hadn't really thought it would cause problems until I started having the new back pain and starting doing some research on pregnancy and scoliosis. Seems like some people have problems with getting epidurals and some people are in labor for a long time and the baby just can't descend and they end up having a c-section like you talked about @gemini2005. I'll post what my doctor says when I talk to him in a few weeks in case it can be of any help to you @WiseUsagi

akb1125

I have scoliosis. I forget what my exact degrees are but they're over 30. I wore a back brace growing up. I talked to my dr ahead of time and she said there was no reason I couldn't have a vaginal delivery. I ended up having a c section due to unrelated reasoning. I did make sure to mention to the anesthesiologist I had scoliosis so I think he was just extra careful giving me the epidural.

Goodluck with everything!

MamaRoni

If you have had surgeries and still have a moderate degree of abnormalities. ... csection MAY be your best option. This is something you definitely need to start discussing. Some anesthesia providers may not be willing to do a spinal black and u may require general anesthesia. ... or some are completely comfortable. That's why it's best to get an idea now.
they may even ask you to get a clearance from your orthopedic doc and or neurosurgeon
Good luck!

Jacqui105

I have a total spinal fusion, 30 degree curves. I have just a few vertebrae at the top & bottom each that aren't fused. One thing that was really helpful, which my OB had recommended, was bringing my surgery report to the hospital for when they administered the epidural. It really helped them get the placement and know what they had to work with. You can call your orthopedic surgeon's office and get a copy mailed to you. I had two vaginal births without a problem. Although, I will say, I don't seem to have as many other complications from the scoliosis as you're describing. Ask your surgeon & OB their opinions and get that surgery report for the anesthesiologist!