Upcoming Birth with Tinnitus

[KINS52]

So I've suffered with Tinnitus (Pulsatile) since 2019. Although never formally diagnosed all specialists I have spoken with have pointed towards this.

I am 38 currently 28 weeks pregnant (3rd child) and am now facing the dilemma of birthing options - natural delivery or C-section.

Given that my tinnitus flares up/becomes worse in the normal fashion - stress, high pressure weather, exercise etc. Some days a bowel movement can make me feel like my head is going to explode and having given birth twice naturally before I am worried that the physical pressure is going to be on a whole new level and cause other complications.

Does anyone have experience of delivering naturally with pulsatile tinnitus? Good or bad please I would like to hear anyone's experience.

[Bob2a]

It might be worth getting a proper diagnosis and discussing your fears about the birth with the consultant. If you are in the UK it might be worth trying to get a referral via your GP to see Mr Patrick Axon at Addenbrookes Hospital who is an expert in Pulsatile Tinnitus. I saw him a few years ago and found out mine wasn't Pulsatile tinnitus.

[PABLR]

I cannot speak to the birth experience, but I am very surprised that no-one has recommended you get an MRI with pulsatile tinnitus. I have tinnitus all the time, pulsatile intermittently and have had two MRIs over the years. It was discovered I have a vascular loop (not serious) but some conditions can be especially if one sided.

I would say that if your tinnitus is reactive, which it seems to be, and you have the option of a C-section, it might be worth it because of the stress relief. Relief from having to make that decision, and relief from worrying about it during the birth. Of course the recovery from the birth is harder... Swings and roundabouts, unfortunately.

[Inajiffym8]

Hi I have only had tinnitus last few months just basic ringing in the ears, ears dewaxed a few months ago...audiologist said I have mild to moderate earing loss....tinnitus is bearable through the day...but difficult at night...Still manage roughly 6..7 hours of interrupted sleep...so busy at work...trying to fit in GP appointment specifically for tinnitus...my sister as menieress disease...so it could be family condition....hope it works out for you