Spine/Back Surgery??

I had one at 20. Very lower back too. Am looking at possibly having to have a second one now at 41. Had 3 successful pregnancies (with 3 successful epidurals!). They did all ultimately end in c-sections, but that had nothing to do with the back issues. I did see a special doctor, but again, not because of my back. I’m a type 1 diabetic. If you need the back surgery done, you gotta do it mama! And it does not necessarily mean that it’s the end of any future babies.

@Alissa I had a complete spinal fusion in 2017!! I just had my baby in August but my labor was very difficult and ended in a C-Section!! I also was put to sleep because where my previous surgery was done, there was no way for them to do an epidural or spinal block.. I was just curious if anyone had issues with vaginal deliveries after back surgeries! I’m not sure who to even go to about these questions! I really would like to have a natural birth next time, just don’t know where to get my information from unfortunately 🫠

Hi Laura! I had spinal fusion surgery when I was 18 to correct scoliosis, which left me with screws and rods in my lower back. I was considered a high risk pregnancy. In the UK, with high risk pregnancies you are monitored by a doctor throughout your pregnancy. I was told I couldn’t have an epidural because of where my spinal fusion is and if I needed a c section I would need to be put under general anaesthetic. I found pregnancy difficult as my pain was exacerbated by the added weight and pressure on my lower back. But I was seen by a physiotherapist who used muscular tape in areas that were really strained and gave me a walking stick, which helped so much! I was limited with pain relief though, so I spent many days resting especially towards the end. My delivery was absolutely fine and I couldn’t have wished for a better birth! I used hypnobirthing techniques and was given pethidine which really helped. I gave birth to our baby girl naturally after 12 hours of labour.

@Farhaana Thank you so much for replying!! My surgery was also to correct scoliosis! I worked until the day before I went into labor🙃 but my delivery was awful! I labored for 24+ hours and never dilated past 1cm.. I was wondering if this could be do to the screws and rods! It’s great to hear you were able to deliver naturally!

@Laura I’m sorry your labour was difficult:( but I hope your baby’s smiles and milestones make it all worthwhile 🩷🩷🩷

@Farhaana They’re definitely worth it! I’d do it a million times over!

@Alissa hey!! I’m also a T1D and probably getting back surgery in the future (after birth) due to a black disk 😩 how was your experience with pain, recovery, & all???

I’ve also had a spinal fusion L5-S1 and have been thinking about the delivery process. I’m 16 weeks pregnant. Should I be worried / see a doctor about my back ???

@Nour I’m not sure if it’s common to, but I regret not seeing a doctor that specialized in back surgeries and delivery prior to giving birth!! I just wish I knew more about it, and what I wasn’t able to do (epidural, spinal block, and possible issues with dilating).. of course some people go in to have a “normal” pregnancy and delivery, but I wish there was someone I could’ve talked to!!

I had a spinal fusion but only on the top half so they were still able to do the epidural. I was induced at 41wks cause I wasn’t dilated at all and the labor ended up going really quickly and easily to my surprise.