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Childbirth/pregnacy and pubic fracture

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Expert: - 8/22/2008


Question
Hello I was diagnosed a few months ago with a pubic ramus stress fracture and was wondering if I can have a natural childbirth or what are my chances of getting hurt worse or should i have a c section

Answer
Crystal,

Without more information, it's difficult to say.  Much will depend on the location of the fracture (anterior/posterior) and whether it is displaced.  A displaced fracture typically requires surgical realignment.


A natural birth may still be possible.  The main thing you'd need to remember would be to use effective birth positions which don't strain the pubic symphysis.  I'd recommend sidelying as your best option for eliminating pressure and strain on the pelvic girdle which could displace your fracture if it has not fully healed.


To learn more about effective birth positions, visit http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/birth-positions.html and for specific information on sidelying, visit http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/side-lying.html



Best,
Catherine

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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