Pregnancy after TRAM flap

[Palo]

I was diagnosed in 1996, had a mastectomy, and underwent 8 rounds of chemo and 8 weeks of radiation.  I decided to have the TRAM flap reconstruction in 1999.  I'm now 36 years old and would like to have a child.  I have a mesh in place and two of my ab muscles were used for the TRAM.  What are the complications involved?  There doesn't seem to be much information about women who have had successful pregnancies following a TRAM.  Are there any suggestions regarding what to do or not do during pregnancy?  I would appreciate any help you can give.  Thanks.

[CCF-RN,MSN-JS]

Dear Palo,
I did check with some of the people here regarding pregnancy after a TRAM surgery.  While there has been some documentation of successful pregnancies with a unilateral TRAM (use of one of the abdominal muscles), this is not the case with a bilateral TRAM (use of 2 of the abdominal muscles).  The concern is that without these muscles a body would not be able to support a pregnancy and the possibility of a herniation would be great.  We would advise caution in proceeding with a pregnancy.  Certainly, this should be a discussion with your plastic surgeon and OB/GYN, so that you can be aware of all of the risks and make an informed decision.

[b.c.survivor]

I am a 32 yr old breast cancer survivor . I had a right modified radical mastectomy in Nov. 1998, and have not had reconstruction. I am seriously considering a tram flap, but I am having difficulty finding information regarding the topic, pregnancy after a tram flap.  If there is anyone out there that can provide me any information, I'd greatly appreciate it.