Pregnancy, breastfeeding and surgery

What Dr. Elalfy's guides say about operations during pregnancy, planning a pregnancy after surgery, and breastfeeding.

Key points from the guides

Pregnant women: appendectomy is safe in all trimesters, but symptoms may be atypical.
From the guide: Appendectomy
Pregnancy: if gallbladder surgery is needed during pregnancy, it can be done safely by laparoscopy in any trimester; your surgeon and obstetrician will plan the timing together
From the guide: Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Breastfeeding: if your baby is healthy and was born at full term, you can usually breastfeed again straight after either general or spinal anaesthesia, as soon as you are awake, alert, stable and able to hold your baby safely. Most medications are safe; confirm each with your doctor. Extra caution, with a possible pause of 6–12 hours, applies only to vulnerable babies or after heavier opioid painkillers
From the guide: Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Pregnancy: delay surgery if possible; supportive belt may help if needed
From the guide: Laparoscopic Paraumbilical / Ventral Hernia Repair
Pregnancy (females): discuss the timing of future pregnancy with your surgeon.
From the guide: Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
Pregnancy: these medicines are stopped before a planned pregnancy; follow your prescriber's advice.
From the guide: Weight-Loss Injections (GLP-1) and Surgery

Guides to read next

Go to the emergency room immediately, then call your surgeon, if you have severe pain, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, fever, or any warning sign in your guide.

This page gives general information and does not replace the advice of your treating team. Your own team's instructions always come first.