Recent Spinal Fusion & oops I am pregnant

[Kimberly77]

I recently had my 3rd lumbar spinal fusion (L5-S1) on Sept 4, 2008. VERY MUCH to my surprise I recently found out I am pregnant. According to the ultrasound, it seems as though I conceived about 3 weeks after my fusion. I have discussed all of this with my OB and he doesn't seem concerned. He knows my history of medications (ie. narcotics for pain) and as far as I have researched they can be rather dangerous. I have stopped all of my meds regardless of the pain however I was taking them for the first 2 1/2 mths of my pregnancy as I didn't know I was expecting? Should I seek a specialist that may know more about the effects of my medications on the baby. Also, I am scheduled for my next followup with my neurosurgeon soon. However, I am supposed to get xrays of my spine to see if there is any progression with the fusion prior to my appointment with my neurosurgeon. Can I have xrays if I am pregnant? I am lost as to what to do...

Please help!!!!

[jenntanis]

I had my spinal fusion Jan of 2008, and I'm still doing follow up appts with my doctors.  You can take Tylenol for pain, which I take twice a day as a preventative.  My neurosurgeon gave me the ok to try to get pregnant, and I just found out that I am.  You can't have x-rays during pregnancy, but you may be able to have other tests to check the fusion (I'm not sure if you can have CT scans or MRIs, you need to check with your doc).  My doctor recommended that I try to continue walking for exercise, and also to do water therapy/aerobics to help with back pain and weight.  If your OB isn't concerned regarding your medication use, I wouldn't worry.  Also, keep in mind that you may not be able to have an epidural due to your surgeries and the cages.  I have pretty much resolved myself to the fact that I will either have a hard labor, or have a scheduled c-section.  I hope this helps some.