Where can I find additional support and information?

There are plenty of books on pregnancy, birth, and all the challenges with motherhood, but there is much less information for pregnant women and new mothers that have a SCI. Just like experiencing and learning about changes to your body during pregnancy, it is important to educate and advocate for yourself about being a mother and breastfeeding with a SCI.

Recommendations:

  • Look to your healthcare team: Your healthcare team involved in your pregnancy and birth is your primary trusted resource. Physiatrists have the medical knowledge to address concerns related to your SCI. Lactation consultants, midwives and staff of public health agencies have knowledge about pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding. These professionals, working together with you can address your specific concerns.
  • Look online for resources: In addition to information provided in this guide and if you don’t have services locally, look for reputable and accredited sources. Check your local or national Spinal Cord Injury organizations. There are many dedicated websites in the medical community. Do an online internet search with some key words like “mom SCI and breastfeeding”. Online videos, articles and peers’ stories provide opportunities for learning and connections among a growing population of moms with a SCI all around the world.
  • Connect with other moms: Peer support is important for all new moms, including moms with SCI. Social media platforms like Facebook have many groups you could join and are a popular place to share questions and concerns and learn about equipment or adaptations ideas.
  • Stay connected: We also know there is a risk of isolation. Currently, there is no way to fully prevent depression or anxiety postpartum but knowing what signs to watch for can be helpful. It’s important to stay connected and not isolated. First, you’re a new mom and that means you share a lot of the same emotions, concerns, and challenges as every new mother. Reach out to other moms in your community or online for advice, support and joint activities, especially nature and outdoor; there are more things in common with able-bodied moms once issues around your SCI are addressed.