Pregnancy and upper extremity lymphedema

[NHanna]

Hey everyone, I have lymphedema in my right arm after a complete axillary lymph node dissection due to a melanoma diagnosis 5 years ago. My husband and I are talking about children. Has anyone had any experiences with upper extremity lymphedema and pregnancy? I’m so scared the swelling and pain will become unmanageable during pregnancy or that my arm will never return to normal size!

[Lynora]

Have you had a chance to discuss your concerns with your therapist? Are you in the US?

I have worked with several women who had lymphoedema as a result of breast cancer treatment, and became pregnant. With good management (compression garments and regular MLD) there were no problems during their pregnancies. They did have support from family with the babies.

[NHanna in reply to Lynora]

Thanks for the info! I am in Canada and have a great therapist, however she has not had many experiences with this situation. I am an RN and can’t wear my compression glove/sleeve at work due to infection control purposes. I will most likely need to consider different employment while pregnant in order to wear my compression at all times

[Lynora in reply to NHanna]

I had a nursing friend several years ago who returned to midwifery following treatment for breast cancer. She had a two year old daughter. She developed lymphoedema following radiotherapy so as frontline work was not an option, she went in to tutoring and mentoring. She loved being able to pass on her enthusiasm.