Thin Uterus & Pregnancy After Multiple C-Sections: Risks & Options

Question
I have had 4 children via caesarean section. I  was delivered at 37 weeks after having mild contractions and after delivering my 4th baby the Obstetrician said i had a "paper thin" uterus and should not have any more children!?  My son also had to been in the special care unit for 8 days for immature lung development.  What are the risks of another pregnancy?? Thanks, Katrina

Answer
Dear Katrina

There is definitley a risk but you can attempt pregnancy provided that you have access to proper antenatal care.

The risks are actually two. First the risk of rupture uterus is high if you go beyond 36-37 week. Therefore, your doctor will probably deliver you at 36 weeks as a maximum. This usually does not cause any major problems for your baby. In a minority of cases, some babies need to be incubated. The second risk is the possibility of abnormal implantaion of the placenta and this, in many ocassions is accompanied by severe bleeding especially at the time of delivery and may end up into hysterectomy.

If you plan to attempt pregnancy, be sure to have your delivery in a well equipped hospital with proper emergency services, blood banking and neonatal intensive care facilities with the availability of senior obstetrian's staff.

Good Luck