I have no experience with c-sections since I had my jpouch surgery, but I did have two prior to my colectomy. Prior to my colectomy and jpouch surgery I was diagnosed with an enlarged uterus, thickened endometrial stripe and fibroids. Although I am coming at this from a different angle than you, I insisted I had a full exam consisting of an endometrial biopsy and vaginal ultrasound to ensure I had enough space in my pelvis for pouch creation. Also, I insisted on having the obstetric/gynecological surgeon in the room that day during my colorectal surgery in the event I had any female related issues that would prevent me from having my jpouch made. I wanted the specialist on board to address any issues at the same time in the event surgical intervention was required. It cost me an additional $1800 OOP (non-par specialist), but it was worth every cent for my peace of mind entering the surgery with both specialists on board.

My recommendation to you is to have both surgeons in the room when you are having your c-section to be on the safe side in the event your jpouch is compromised in any way based upon the c-section. I am sure this will NOT be the case for you, but I am unsure of how many gyno surgeons have had a lot of experience performing
c-sections on people who have jpouches. Quite possibly from an anatomy standpoint, it is no different to them than it is for people who have colons.

I would have peace of mind with both specialists on board the day of surgery. I would much rather be safe than sorry.

I am having a c-section in Jan (I hope I make it that long). My jpouch surgeon said definately have a c-section and have colorectal surgeons on call if needed - but he said that he has never been called in to a c-section for any issues. He figures it should be OK. I decided to just have the OB (who has performed csections on jpouchers before) and to call in reinforcements if needed (they will be there if needed).

Good luck !

When are you due?

Hi Daisy,
I had two c-sections and did not have my colorectal surgeon present for either. My OB wasn't even high risk. Having that said, you have to do what makes you comfortable and gives you the most peace of mind.

As jeane and your surgeon stated, from an anatomy standpoint, it really doesn't make much difference as the pouch is located in the back of the uterus. They don't even go near it. One issue that could arise may be he existence of scar tissue, adhesions, etc. which could make things a little more difficult (but not considered an emergency from a surgical standpoint).

Congratulations, and best of luck!

Colleen

I had a colo-rectal surgeon present; my OB and I both agreed it would be a good idea just in case something went awry and I felt more comfortable having him there. He was not the surgeon who did my surgey, just a colo-rectal surgeon in the hospital's network, but I did schedule a meeting with him several months before my due date to ask if he would sit in with my OB and consult on the surgery and he agreed and then contacted the doc. I only saw him that one time and he showed up as scheduled and assisted the OB with the C. I know the excised some scar tissue while they were in there and I'm not sure the OB would have done that if he was on his own.

I had my c section emergency at 28 weeks with my twins last year and had them at an Army base so no colorectal surgeon was available. They did say it was one of the most difficult c sections they ever did because of extensive scar tissue, but the uterus is above the pouch and was no problem there at all. Good luck!

I've had 2 c-sections. One high risk OB and one regular. One had my colorectal surgeon on call but there was no need. I was not concerned the second time around.

I've heard pros and cons for both options from my docs.

Does anyone know if having (or not having) a rectum makes a difference?