Lymphedema and Pregnancy?

Hi - I am 29 years old and I have been living with primary lymphedema for the last 10 years (left leg/foot). I've managed it by wearing compression stockings every day and visiting a nurse who treats me with MLD each month. I am active - I run and bike on a regular basis, and I am a healthy weight. This has really helped to keep it manageable over the years. My question - does anyone have experience with primary lymphedema in the legs/feet and pregnancy? My husband and I are currently trying to conceive. My doctor feels as long as I continue with MLD and compression stockings throughout pregnancy, I should not have any lasting effects after pregnancy. I'm just curious to hear personal stories of pregnancy and LD.

Also, what is the risk of my child having primary LD? I've read that many lymphedema patients have perfectly healthy kids, but are there statistics anywhere to prove this?

Appreciate the feedback!

While I have never treated anyone with primary lymphedema who was also pregenant, know that increased edema that occurs with pregnancy is usually related to greater strain on the venous system. This is NOT the same as lymphedema. In fact, most insurance companies will not cover MLD for women who experience edema due to pregnancy because it is a "normal" side effect of pregnancy.

Just know that your edema may worsen during pregnancy, but there is no reason it would cause further damage to the lymphatic system. In other words, you will need to be especially careful about your diet and time you spend on your feet. You may need to find yourself elevating your legs (I know elevation is not really supposed to help true lymphedema, but remember that your venous system will be taxed during this time as well...which does respond to elevation). You may also wish to consider swimming versus running during your pregnancy.

Are you in a class 1 or class 2 garment? There is a possiblilty you may need to jump to a higher class.

Make sure your RN is certified in lymphedema management...treatment by one who is not is reckless. Have her take baseline measurements...any consistent change more than 3 cm is significant and should require further follow up.

There is a thought that primary lymphedema has some genetic tendencies...but the jury is still out on this one.

Best wishes!

If you are in 30-40, there is probably no reason to increase this...however, you may need to go to a thigh high...and possibly on both legs.
P.S. I find it strange that your primary lymphedema only affects the left leg. Report It

GREETINGS, Monose07,

I'm Tina, owner of Lymphland.com and also Lymphland International support Group. Feel free to check out my site, http://www.lymphland.com and join my support group if you wish. I've had several members who have had babies that are perfectly health, while a few have passed the FOXC2 genes to their children.

This is a page from my site that can help answer some of your questions:

http://www.lymphland.com/pregnancynle.ht...

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