Expert: Catherine Beier MS CBE - 7/28/2009

Question
I was in a vehicle accident on January 2nd 2008 where I suffered 3 pelvic hairline fractures.  I waited 11 months after the accident to fall pregnant as advised by my physician to make sure the fractures had healed properly. I needed no surgery, pins or plates, I had to walk with a walker and cane for the first 6 weeks after the accident and after that I was fine.  I followed up with physio and regained my strength within 3 months of the accident I was practically back to my old self.  Since being pregnant I have not had any pain or discomfort where my fractures had occured.  My question is will I be able to have a vaginal delivery without refracturing or should I schedule a c section?

Answer
Jessica,

At this point, I see no need to automatically schedule a c-section.  It sounds as if everything has healed properly and no adverse effects have been noted due to pregnancy.


Unless you begin to have signs of pelvis distress during your pregnancy, which is when most of the strain and expansion of your pelvis occurs, then you should be able to have a vaginal birth.  


So, at this point, the best option is to wait and see what happens as you near the end of pregnancy.  If all is still well, then a vaginal birth should be your first option.


Best,
Catherine