From the Research
Women with cerebral palsy (CP) considering childbirth should work closely with a multidisciplinary healthcare team, including obstetricians, neurologists, and physical therapists, for personalized care, as this approach has been shown to improve outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life 1.
Key Considerations
- Pregnancy is generally safe for women with CP, but requires specialized planning to address potential complications like increased spasticity, mobility challenges, and pain management.
- Early prenatal care is essential to identify and manage potential risks, and women should continue their regular CP medications if deemed safe during pregnancy; baclofen and diazepam may be used with caution, while botulinum toxin injections are typically avoided 2.
- Physical therapy should be maintained throughout pregnancy to manage muscle tone and prevent falls, and for delivery, women should discuss birth plans early, considering potential mobility limitations that might affect labor positions.
- Epidural anesthesia is often recommended for pain management and to reduce spasticity during labor, and after birth, occupational therapy can help with adaptive parenting techniques and equipment.
Interventions to Prevent Cerebral Palsy
- Magnesium sulphate for women at risk of preterm birth for fetal neuroprotection can prevent cerebral palsy, as shown in a Cochrane review 1.
- Prophylactic antibiotics for women in preterm labor with intact membranes, and immediate rather than deferred birth of preterm babies with suspected fetal compromise, may increase the risk of cerebral palsy.
Importance of Multidisciplinary Care
- A multidisciplinary healthcare team can provide personalized care and support to women with CP, addressing their unique needs and challenges during pregnancy and childbirth.
- This approach can help improve outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, and enable women with CP to have successful pregnancies and deliveries 3.