Marfans Syndrome

[addie81]

I have been told that I may have this - I am almost 30 weeks pregnant. it seems to have consequences for the rest of the pregnancy and for labour and delivery - with the possibility of having to have a CS or at least an epidural immediately upon starting labour to alleviate the pressure on the aorta caused by blood pressure rises and falls during contractions. Are there any other MNers out there with a definite or possible Marfans diagnosis? What difference is it making to labour/birth for you?

A friend was investigated for over a year whether she had Marfan's -- she didn't, but they think she has a mild-and-similar genetic condition.
The other good news is that she just had a healthy pregnancy & first baby.

Sorry I can't be more helpful,but maybe this will bump up for someone more experienced to reply.

Hi Addie, I do not have personal experience, but I have cared for a lady in labour with Marfans syndrome. The recommendation was induction of labour with an early epidural (ie as soon as ARM performed and prior to syntocinon) and a 'short' second stage (ie less than 1 hour of active pushing). Once she was fully dilated we awaited 2 hrs prior to pushing to ensure the head was well descended, and she achieved a normal delivery after only 30 mins of pushing - so all was well. The obstetric team were quite happy for her to go for a normal delivery as her blood pressure was normal antenatally and she had had a scan of her aortic arch.
Hope thats helpful.
Make sure you see a good maternal medicine consultant during the reminder of your pregnancy, and the best of luck.

thanks for the replies. I have had one scan of my aorta and am going back for another one in two weeks to make sure it hasn't got any bigger. Maltester - was the patient you cared for induced before her due date?

Yep, at 39 weeks, rationale being that she would labour during the day when the most experienced staff, including her own consultant, would be on duty.