Total hip arthroplasty is not just for senior citizens.
Women of childbearing age who have had hip replacement surgery may be concerned about how the replacement will react to their pregnancy and intense pressure during delivery, as well as how both will affect the prosthetic postpartum.
Function
With the invention of new prosthetics, hip replacement, also referred to as total hip arthroplasty (THA), is often completed in younger women of childbearing age who suffer from hip dysplasia or dislocation, juvenile inflammatory arthritis and hip fractures or trauma, according to prohealth.com
Safety
According to a study conducted by Cathy M. McDowell, RN and Paul F. Lachiewicz, MD in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, successful pregnancy and normal vaginal delivery can occur after total hip arthroplasty.
Considerations
Before deciding on a vaginal or Cesarean delivery, your obstetrician may conduct an exam to determine if the legs open widely enough to accommodate a vaginal delivery. He or she may also request permission to discuss with your orthopedic surgeon the possibility of a safe vaginal delivery.
Possible Side Effects
According to a study conducted by R.J. Sierra, M.D. in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, although childbirth is not affected by a hip replacement, pain in the hip may be experienced during pregnancy which may lead to postpartum groin pain.
Warning
Groin pain that is persistent after delivery may require a revision total hip arthroplasty. Inform your doctor if such pain is experienced to determine if surgery is necessary.
Tags: vaginal delivery, According study, According study conducted, Bone Joint, Bone Joint Surgery