It’s November, and we are heading toward the winter and the end of the year. I hope we can welcome a new year that brings everyone peace and joy.
There is a very special topic that I would like to discuss, as I have recently been asked to find resources for pregnant patients. The beautiful blessing of a child can light the souls of so many. Let’s look into the challenges being a limb loss individual can bring to your new pregnancy. I have found that there isn’t much in the world of Google and Wikipedia on this subject.
When obstetricians are asked for tips on what a woman can do to prepare for the changes that her body will go through and how it might affect her limb loss, they seem to direct their patients to their prosthetist. Your prosthetist can give you advice regarding your limb and the weight change and volume changes your limb may go through during pregnancy. The added weight of the baby can affect the comfort level of limb loss patients. I think another really good resource is other women who have children and limb loss. Then you can take this advice and speak to your baby doctor about it to get his or her support when following your pregnancy. In addition, your prosthetist may know of support groups online or local support groups. Many support groups are meeting virtually during the pandemic.
I have complied some resources I found through internet searches that I think can be helpful.
https://www.disabledparent.org.uk/personal-experience/pregnancy-as-an-amputee
https://amputeestore.com/blogs/amputee-life/amputee-mommy-prosthetic-pregnancy-road-map
https://blog.knitrite.com/2018/08/23/4-things-to-consider-when-youre-a-pregnant-amputee-mommy/
One article in particular I will share is from an article on the Amputee Coalition website, and it is by Sarah Pederson, author, physical therapist, above the knee limb loss amputee, wife and mother. She details her journey and provides reassurance that, “it all seems to work out”.
https://www.amputee-coalition.org/resources/having-a-baby/
I agree with her that proactivity from the beginning can make a huge difference in your individual experience. The focus should be on that beautiful new life that will be coming into this world and how your strength will be passed to them. I can only give you my perspective as a grandmother in that exercise, eat right, and enjoy the beautiful laughter children bring into your life.
My grandchildren see me as just Grandma, or Granny as I am sometimes called. My limb loss has not stopped me from chasing them or from getting up in the night when they need me. It hasn’t stopped me from getting hugs and lifting them up. We go the park and roll in the leaves. The most important thing to remember is that you are still whole - our parts are just a bit different than what is defined in society as normal. Our new normal can be our superpower if we choose. So, if you are thinking or trying for a new family addition, relax, talk to your OB doctor and your prosthetist. You have a whole new team there to make this journey wonderful and memorable. Preparation is key, but whether you are a mother who is pregnant or a dad with limb loss you will be amazing. Reach out and talk to other amputees in support groups as they all will happily give words of wisdom to help make your journey smoother. Rest, Relaxation and selfcare is imperative. The joy your children (and grandchildren) will bring you is immeasurable, you will only focus on them. Most of all, congratulations on your new upcoming bundle of joy!
Quote: “Motherhood is the greatest thing and the hardest thing.” Author unknown.
These tips are informed suggestions. If you do not feel comfortable with them, please do not attempt them. Instead as always contact your medical professional or your prosthetist for help and advice.
If you have a question for me about living as an amputee, ask! And if I don’t know the answer, I will find it for you, and I will leave no stone unturned to help you find your own personal new normal. If there is a topic you would like me to feature please let me know! I want us all to grow strong together. Email me at Dawn@dankmeyer.com. This email is not secure, so if you wish to keep any specific health information private, you should call us!
Dawn Miranda recently joined Dankmeyer, Inc. as a Prosthetist Assistant after relocating from San Antonio, TX. To read more about Dawn on our Clinical Staff page, click here.