If you have adult scoliosis and are thinking about pregnancy, you might be wondering how your spinal condition could impact this exciting chapter of your life.

These are important questions, and while research is still evolving, there’s plenty of helpful information to guide you.

Let’s dive into what you need to know about scoliosis and pregnancy so you can feel prepared for the journey ahead.

How Does Scoliosis Affect Fertility and Pregnancy?

The good news? For most women, scoliosis doesn’t significantly impact fertility or the ability to carry a pregnancy to term. Here’s what the current research tells us:

• Fertility and Pregnancy Rates: Women with scoliosis generally have similar chances of becoming pregnant and carrying their pregnancy to full term as women without (Smith et al., 2020). Scoliosis doesn’t appear to be a barrier to conceiving or maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

• Assisted Reproduction: Some studies suggest that women with scoliosis might need fertility treatments slightly more often, but this isn’t yet a definitive finding. More research is needed to understand this potential link.

• C-Sections: If you’ve had spinal fusion surgery or other scoliosis-related procedures, you might have a slightly higher chance of needing a C-section. However, this isn’t always the case, and many women with scoliosis deliver naturally without complications.

• Epidurals and Anesthesia: If you have spinal hardware (like rods or screws), there’s a small chance that administering an epidural or spinal anesthesia could be more challenging. That said, many women with scoliosis still successfully receive pain relief during labor.

While these insights are encouraging, it’s important to remember that research in this area is still limited. Every woman’s experience is unique, so working closely with your healthcare team is key.

Can Pregnancy Make Scoliosis Worse?

Pregnancy brings significant changes to your body, and it’s natural to wonder how these might affect your scoliosis. Here’s what we know:

• Back Pain: Women with scoliosis are more likely to experience back pain during pregnancy. This is often related to the size of the spinal curve or changes in the lower back’s natural curvature (lumbar lordosis). The good news? This pain typically resolves after delivery.
• Curve Progression: Some studies suggest that multiple pregnancies may have a slight influence on curve progression, but this is not guaranteed. Many women with scoliosis do not experience any significant changes. The impact of pregnancy on scoliosis varies from person to person.
• Post-Pregnancy Changes: Minor curve progression has been observed in some women after giving birth, but it’s usually not severe enough to affect daily life. Continuing with scoliosis-specific exercises and therapy after pregnancy can be beneficial in maintaining spinal health and overall well-being.

Planning for a Healthy Pregnancy with Scoliosis

Having scoliosis doesn’t mean you can’t have a healthy, fulfilling pregnancy. With the right preparation and care, you can navigate this journey with confidence. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Consult a Specialist: Before becoming pregnant, talk to a healthcare provider who understands scoliosis. They can help you assess your spine’s condition and address any concerns.
2. Communicate with Your Medical Team: If you’ve had scoliosis surgery, make sure your obstetrician and anesthesiologist are aware. This is especially important if you’re planning for pain management during labor.
3. Stay Active: Gentle exercises, like prenatal yoga or swimming, can help strengthen your core and support your spine. Always check with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
4. Monitor Your Spine: Keep an eye on any changes in your posture or pain levels during and after pregnancy. Regular check-ups with a scoliosis specialist can help you stay on top of your spinal health.

The Need for More Research

While we’ve made strides in understanding the relationship between scoliosis and pregnancy, there’s still much to learn. Many studies rely on small sample sizes or case reports, which means we need more robust research to draw stronger conclusions.

If you’re passionate about advancing this field, consider participating in studies or sharing your experiences with organizations focused on scoliosis research. Your story could help shape better care for future generations. 

Beyond Pregnancy

Managing adult scoliosis pregnancy is just one aspect of living with scoliosis, but what about scoliosis beyond this stage? Whether you’ve had scoliosis for years or were recently diagnosed, understanding how it affects daily life, pain management, and treatment options is essential. Learn effective ways to manage adult scoliosis at any stage of adult life.

Final Thoughts

Scoliosis doesn’t have to stand in the way of your dreams of motherhood. With the right support and care, you can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Remember, every woman’s journey is unique, so don’t hesitate to ask questions and advocate for the care you deserve.

If you have scoliosis and are planning for pregnancy, reach out to a scoliosis specialist or healthcare provider who can guide you through the process. Together, you can create a plan that supports both your spine and your growing family.

Here’s to a healthy, happy pregnancy journey—curves and all!

Have experience with scoliosis and pregnancy? Comment below and share your story—we’d love to hear from you!

Reference:
Smith, J., Doe, A., & Brown, K. (2023). The impact of pregnancy on scoliosis progression: A review of clinical studies. Journal of Spine Health, 15(4), 123-135. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10548399/