Pregnancy Post ADR

[Alastair]

This was the reply from Dr Frenk Mayer on behalf of Dr Bertagnoli to one of our members Julie 27/7/05


My question(s) is(are) about becoming pregnant after ADR surgery, specifically a 3-level ADR.

1. is it possible to carry a baby to term and if so, how long do you have to wait to try/become pregnant?

About 3 months from surgery we would not see any problems with the approach in a deliverance - and a pregnancy is 9-10 months. So no reason to wait.

2. is any special care needed during the pregnancy e.g., bed rest during the last trimester?

No, see above. Many female patients underwent anterior fusion for decades in very young age, e.g. for scoliosis. No problems known.

3. is a natural, vaginal birth possible with the normal pushing that is needed or is a cesarean section automatically done?

No. [I am assuming the no is referring to the c-section]

4. after the baby is born, does an ADR woman need to wear her brace again as she did post-op to make sure discs are properly positioned after the load of the fetus? If so, for how long?

No. But many women � with and without ADR, have some back pain in late pregnancy, as ligaments get �softer� during this period. So many patients wish to wear an elastic brace anyway (there are models available which leave room for the rounded abdomen, just in case you need one then.).