Check-Up and Consult with Dr. Gross

Today was my first appointment with Dr. Gross since Dr. Beckwith has retired from colorectal surgery.  We talked about my overall health and she seemed pleased with how I am doing.  Then I asked her many questions regarding my future pregnancy plans and her opinions on pregnancy and delivery.  She was very comforting and said there are really no additional concerns with pregnancy and I could choose either a vaginal birth or a c-section.  Her only recommendation was to deliver at Methodist Medical Center downtown so that there will be a colorectal surgeon on call in case of a c-section where his or her expertiese is required.  If a c-section is necessary, the OB may call the colorectal surgeon to clear adhesions to allow the OB access to the uterus without any intestinal disruptions.  We agreed that since I have had a successful vaginal delivery of a "fairly sizeable kid" (her words, not mine!) it is reasonable to plan for a vaginal delivery.  The risks would not be to damaging my pouch, but just of having a large tear that would interfere with my ability to hold stool.  This risk is not any different than the risk that is present for anyone delivering a baby vaginally.  And there is a great likelihood that I would have minimal tearing and no complications at all.  We also acknowledged that it may be obstetrically necessary to have a c-section even if I plan for a vaginal birth.  In summary, she said there is no "wrong choice" and she is confident my pouch will be in fine shape regardless of the delivery method.  Now I will have continued conversations with my OB and Dr. Young about plans to support the best pregnancy and delivery outcomes.