Scoliosis, or what is known as Abnormal Curvature of the Spine | You can still give birth normally at Hermina Pasteur according to medical indications.

Navigating the pregnancy journey can be both exciting and challenging for expectant mothers. However, for expectant mothers with scoliosis, the experience may come with additional considerations and potential concerns. Scoliosis in pregnant women not only affects physical comfort but can also have an impact on the mother's health and the development of the fetus.

Scoliosis is a disorder characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, which can affect overall body posture. This disorder can vary from mild to severe, depending on the angle of curvature of the affected spine. In most cases, scoliosis occurs idiopathically, meaning the cause is not known with certainty.

Effects of Scoliosis on Pregnancy and the Fetus

1. Lung Capacity and Respiration:

• Severe scoliosis can reduce lung capacity and affect the mother's respiratory function. This can affect blood oxygenation, which is important for fetal health. However, with proper medical supervision, this condition can usually be managed. 

2. Fetal Growth and Development:

• In general, scoliosis does not directly affect fetal growth and development. The fetus can still grow and develop well as long as the pregnant woman receives adequate prenatal care and maintains a healthy diet and lifestyle.

3. Fetal Position:

• Scoliosis can affect the shape and size of the mother's pelvic cavity, which may affect the position of the fetus in the uterus. This can be a risk factor in determining the method of delivery, especially if the fetus is in a position that is not optimal for normal delivery.

4. Pain and discomfort:

• Mothers with scoliosis may experience more significant back pain during pregnancy, which can affect overall well-being. Prolonged pain can affect sleep quality and cause stress, which in turn can affect the health of the fetus.

5. Childbirth Complications:

• Mothers with severe scoliosis may have a higher risk of complications during labor, such as a longer labor or difficulty in labor positions. In some cases, a doctor may recommend a cesarean section to reduce risks to the mother and fetus.

Scoliosis in pregnant women does add certain challenges during pregnancy, but with proper medical care and adequate support, most mothers can have a healthy pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby. However, if the scoliosis is severe, the doctor may recommend a cesarean delivery. If this happens, there is no need to force yourself to give birth normally, especially if the baby's head is not near the birth canal or mother's pelvis. Remember, the safety of Mom's and the fetus is the main thing. The severity of scoliosis in pregnant women can vary. So, to monitor and reduce the risk of complications due to scoliosis, don't forget to have regular check-ups with a gynecologist at Hermina Pasteur.

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Reference :

Theroux J, Brown BT, Marchese R, Selby M, Cope V, McAviney J, Beynon A. The impact of pregnancy on women with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a scoping review. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med. 2023 Aug;59(4):505-521. doi: 10.23736/S1973-9087.23.08086-3. PMID: 37746783; PMCID: PMC10548399.