Pregnant with lymphedema

Nmatheson

Hi everyone,

I have just found out I am 6 wks pregnant, I have lymphedema in my right arm following a lymph node dissection 5 years ago.

I am very excited about the pregnancy but extremely anxious about the effects it’s going to have on my arm. I already feel kind of “full” in my arm but not sure if that’s just due to all of the hormones right now or if it will get worse each week. Does anyone have any experience with being pregnant and having lymphedema? If so do you have any tips to help manage it (ie pumps, specific compression etc.)?

Thanks!

MinusTwo

Congrats Nmatheson - Sorry I have no idea how pregnancy & LE interact. But being proactive is a good thing. I'd insist on a couple of sessions with a certified, trained LEPT. The link below has lots of general info and also how to find trained people in your area.

https://www.stepup-speakout.org/

Moderators

Hi Nmatheson! Welcome to BC.org, and congratulations on your pregnancy!

Sorry we can't really help you with your question but besides the helpful resource from MinusTwo, we'd like to suggest our section called: Creating Your Lymphedema Treatment Plan where you'll find good info and tips that may help you take the proactive approach. Hope this helps!

Warm wishes,

The Mods

fd1

Hi!! I had mild lymphedema in my hand since treatment pretty much. I never did anything to manage it as it did not effect me much. Oddly, during my pregnancy it got slightly better, but I did not suffer from any pregnancy edema. However, when I gave birth in June I received a lot of fluid and in the two weeks following the birth I had edema in my feet and hands. It all went away except for in the side with lymphedema which is now my entire arm. Unfortunately I have been trying various treatments since then but have not had much luck as compression makes my hand terrible which is more debilitating than swelling in the rest of my arm. My advice is to see a trained MLD therapist as often as you can afford during your pregnancy so they can monitor you. Also, wear any compression garments you have. I would highly recommend wearing it during the birthing process and after too. I wish you a happy pregnancy!!!