Re: [ozmidwifery] iliostomy and birth

[Carole Gilmour]

I looked after a woman many years ago now who had an ileostomy and had a normal birth but it was so long ago I remember little else about her experience. Carole  ----- Original Message ----- From: Janine and Steve Clark To: Ozmid Sent: Thursday, October 24, 2002 8:02 PM Subject: [ozmidwifery] iliostomy and birth Hello list,   I'm currently working with a woman as part of our BMid follow through program. She is 23yrs old, with an iliostomy. Currently 28 weeks. They are a delightful couple who are planning a natural, active birth. Their obstetrician (who is quite relaxed about it all) says he sees no problem whatsoever about birthing normally following her surgery (which was done 2 yrs ago).   She is really healthy and well, and the pregnancy has been wonderful so far (she expected maybe some pain due to adhesions, which hasn't happened).   I've asked around lots, and the general consensus is that she will have no problems birthing vaginally. However, can anyone point me to any research or articles regarding this? She cannot find any info about other women who have done this. They are going ahead as normal, but I guess the doubt is in her mind just slightly about her ability to stretch up during second stage with all that scar tissue. She is quite open about it all and very keen to be as normal as possible. I really believe this normal birth will do wonders for her esteem and body image (even more so than the average woman).   Anyone have any experience or articles about this?   Regards, Janine