An unexpected delivery: pregnancy experience of a paraplegic lady

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2017 · DOI: 10.1038/scsandc.2017.2 · Published: May 4, 2017

Spinal Cord Injury Women's Health Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This case report describes the pregnancy experience of a 29-year-old woman with paraplegia due to a spinal cord injury. She conceived naturally two years after her injury and received routine antenatal care. However, she experienced a precipitous labor and delivered unexpectedly in her bathroom. The report highlights the importance of specialized obstetric care with rehabilitation input for pregnant women with SCI to manage disability-related issues during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One 29-year-old paraplegic woman

Evidence Level

Case Series

Key Findings

1
A woman with paraplegia experienced an unexpected, precipitous delivery at home despite receiving routine antenatal care at a low-risk center.
2
The patient did not experience typical labor symptoms due to impaired sensation from her spinal cord injury.
3
The case underscores the potential for complications and the need for specialized care for pregnant women with spinal cord injuries.

Research Summary

This case report details the pregnancy and unexpected delivery of a 29-year-old woman with paraplegia, highlighting the unique challenges and potential complications associated with pregnancy in women with spinal cord injuries. The woman, who conceived naturally, received routine antenatal care but experienced a precipitous labor and delivered at home without recognizing active labor due to impaired sensation. The authors emphasize the importance of specialized obstetric care and rehabilitation input throughout antenatal and postnatal care to ensure optimal outcomes for pregnant women with SCI, addressing disability-related issues that can be exacerbated during this period.

Practical Implications

Need for Specialized Care

Highlights the necessity of specialized obstetric care with rehabilitation input for pregnant women with SCI to manage potential complications.

Awareness of Atypical Labor

Emphasizes the importance of awareness among healthcare providers regarding atypical labor presentations in women with SCI due to impaired sensation.

Proactive Management

Advocates for proactive management of disability-related issues throughout pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period to improve overall outcomes.