Pregnancy and lymphodema

[AMH2]

Does it get much worse during pregnancy? Does it go back after te pregnancy or if it worsens does it stay like that?

[kharimata]

Dear

i was always told by every doctor that it will get worse during and after pregnancy. Due to extra weight and the fact that the baby is blocking the circulation and puts extra pressure on lymph vessels. I know many women that ,although no le , develop swollen limbs during their pregnancy. In their case after pregnancy it gets better again. But i think when you are prepared you can prevent yourself from extra damage, in fact that is what i am planning to do. Keep your stockings on, eevate the leg, continue swimming, eat healthy and lots of mld. I hope yhis will help to prevent it getting worse. Take care. I worry about this too but it can not let you spoil anything!

[AMH2 in reply to kharimata]

Thanks kharmita, im not yet pregnant but were planning to. We're really concerned how ill cope and whether I worsen my condition longterm. I do all the right things noe yet my lymphedema keeps getting worse. Don't want it to stop me living my life though

[lovesradio]

Many congratulations on your pregnancy and I really like kharimata's suggestions, prevention is always better than cure! You could try yoga for pregnancy as well as all the other suggestions for gentle stretching and help with deeper breathing. Good luck with pregnancy and birth xx

[AMH2]

Apologies, it is in my left leg following surgery and radiotherapy

[LymphSuppNetwork Partner LSN]

Hi AMH2 There is a great article on lymphoedema and pregnancy on the LSN website lymphoedema.org/Menu3/5Arti...

Hope this helps and good luck x

[AMH2 in reply to LymphSuppNetwork]

This is really helpful, is there a particular therapist/doctor you would recommend?

[LymphSuppNetwork Partner LSN]

Where in the country do you live?

[AMH2 in reply to LymphSuppNetwork]

London, Central/east

[LymphSuppNetwork Partner LSN]

If you give the office a ring on 020 7351 4480 they will be able to look at which clinics are closest to you - although London is a bit of a challenge