Arnold-Chiari Malformation Support Group

Arnold-Chiari malformation, sometimes referred to as 'Chiari malformation' or ACM, is a congenital anomaly of the brain. Arnold-Chiari Malformation II occurs in almost all children born with both spina bifida and hydrocephalus, but ACM I is typically seen in children and adults without spina bifida.

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Katie-Davison 04/26/2013

So, I haven't been here in a while but I'm back b/c I need advice. Found out recently that I am almost 8 weeks pregnant (first pregnancy). I was decompressed 1/18/11 (chiari 8mm). I also have syringo (7mm at C7). I have had complications since, and syrinx has stayed same size. Since my OB isn't very familiar with Chiari and I am seeing a new neuro I would love some advice and opinions from Chiarians that have been through, or are going through this. Did your symptoms worsen? Did you have a vaginal birth or C-section? Is there anything you would have done differently if you could do it differently? Any other recommendations?

Thanks so much!

shehas 05/03/2013

Hi Katie. First a big CONGRATS on the pregnancy! How exciting!

Ive never had any kids but my neurosurgeon said it shouldn't be a problem. However, my cousin also has Chiari and she did have a baby. She had an epidural and they delivered her little boy with forceps. She has a lot of trouble with the pain and she said they did it that way to prevent her having to push very hard. I don't know if this is a common practice or if they just "tried something" that worked. Both Mom and baby were fine. But that was over 10 years ago and they may do things differently now .
Good luck!

Arcticfox3 07/04/2013

I didn't find out about my Chiari until my daughter was only 2. I was a high risk pregnancy with both my kids and had them both naturally. My eldest was very painful for me and came close to a cesarean but they did an epidural with my daughter and all was fine.

rrodgers 07/30/2013

Congratulations on your pregnancy. I've had 3 children. The first two were very difficult births. I had preclampsia with early delivery with induced labor and almost had a stroke with an epidural at 9. The second one, I was 9, so the dr. told me to have it naturally, and he was almost 10 lb. The third one, I had a shot and then an epidural. He was easy then, but he has been one of the most difficult to raise. Eat a tbs of peanut butter every day. That's what I did with my last 2. Also, consider nursing. I was too embarrassed and shy on my first one. However, I did with my last 2 for 4-6 wk and it made such a big difference. Colostrum is so important and helps the babies to be smart. Best of luck! Prayerfully.

deleted_user 04/23/2014

Look into passive delivery and consult a high risk pregnancy OB.

pinkpony66 05/02/2014

I would go to ASAP sight and all them there. I believe it's a bad idea to get an epidural and a bad idea to push. The Chiari specialists need to help you make this decision.

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