The good news? Many individuals with hydrocephalus have healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies. With proper planning, medical support, and open communication with your healthcare providers, a safe and joyful pregnancy is possible.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Yes. Hydrocephalus does not impact fertility, and many people with hydrocephalus become pregnant without complications. However, your individual medical history, including the type of treatment you’ve had (such as a shunt or ETV), will help guide your care plan.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re considering pregnancy, talk with your neurosurgeon and obstetrician ahead of time so they can coordinate your care from the beginning.<\/span><\/p>\n If you’re thinking about starting a family, here are a few important steps to take:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n It\u2019s a common concern: \u201cWill my baby have hydrocephalus, too?\u201d In most cases, hydrocephalus is not inherited. While there are rare genetic forms\u2014often associated with conditions like spina bifida or aqueductal stenosis\u2014most people with hydrocephalus do not pass it on to their children. A genetic counselor can help assess any potential risks based on your medical history.<\/span><\/p>\n Pregnancy causes changes in your body\u2014including increased blood volume, fluid retention, and pressure shifts\u2014that may affect individuals with hydrocephalus differently. Most people don\u2019t experience shunt or ETV complications<\/a> during pregnancy, but it\u2019s important to know what to look for.<\/span><\/p>\n Some symptoms of increased intracranial pressure can overlap with typical pregnancy discomforts. Contact your medical team if you notice:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Regular check-ins with your neurosurgeon during pregnancy can help monitor your condition and provide peace of mind.<\/span><\/p>\n It’s helpful to create an emergency plan before labor. This should include:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Share this plan with your obstetric team and have it on hand during labor and delivery, especially in hospitals unfamiliar with hydrocephalus.<\/span><\/p>\n In some cases, imaging may be needed to evaluate a headache or a possible shunt or ETV complication. <\/span>MRI is generally preferred during pregnancy and is considered safe, particularly in the second and third trimesters. CT scans are typically avoided during pregnancy due to radiation exposure and are usually only considered in life-threatening situations when an MRI is not available. Your care team will carefully weigh the risks and benefits and choose the safest option for you and your baby.<\/p>\n Both vaginal birth and cesarean section (C-section) are possible for individuals with hydrocephalus. Your delivery plan will depend on your specific situation:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Also, confirm whether your neurosurgeon has privileges at the hospital where you plan to deliver or can be consulted if needed.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u201cI have had hydrocephalus since I was six weeks old due to aqueductal stenosis, and I have a VP shunt. I was able to have three children vaginally and had a wonderful experience with all three.<\/span><\/i>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n I met with a high-risk OB in advance, even though my OB felt very comfortable supporting me through pregnancy and delivery\u2014I just wanted to double-check. After that visit, I decided to return to my regular OB and had such a smooth experience.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n What was interesting is that during all three pregnancies, I experienced migraines\u2014which I had never had before\u2014so it was scary not knowing whether they were migraines or related to my hydrocephalus. However, the hospital and my doctors supported me with a plan, and everything turned out alright.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n I am so thankful for HA for speaking openly about hydrocephalus, which helped me feel much more confident as I began that journey 13 years ago.\u201d -Stephanie (Buffa) Vogt<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n After delivery, keep an eye on both physical healing and hydrocephalus symptoms. Hormonal changes, fluid shifts, and sleep deprivation can sometimes mask signs of increased intracranial pressure. Be sure to:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Breastfeeding is safe with a shunt or ETV. Hydrocephalus itself doesn\u2019t interfere with nursing. If you\u2019re taking any medications, consult your doctor or lactation consultant to ensure they\u2019re safe while breastfeeding.<\/span><\/p>\n Pregnancy and postpartum can be emotionally intense for anyone\u2014but especially for people managing a lifelong condition like hydrocephalus. Past medical experiences, fears of complications, or anxiety about parenting can surface during this time.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Don\u2019t hesitate to reach out for support. Perinatal mental health therapists, social workers, or hydrocephalus support communities<\/a> can provide a safe space to talk. You are not alone in this journey.<\/span><\/p>\n Partners and support people can play a vital role by:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Encourage your partner or loved ones to read this article and be part of your care plan.<\/span><\/p>\n Bring these to your next appointment:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Staying organized and informed can reduce stress during pregnancy. Consider:<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Having hydrocephalus doesn\u2019t mean you can\u2019t have a healthy pregnancy or enjoy motherhood. With the right medical team, early planning, and strong support, many people with hydrocephalus go on to experience smooth pregnancies and deliveries.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n If you\u2019re planning for pregnancy or already expecting, don\u2019t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and build a care team that understands your unique needs. You deserve support every step of the way.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Information you can trust! This article was produced by the Hydrocephalus Association, copyright 2024. We would like to thank\u00a0Abhay Moghekar, MBBS,\u00a0for his valuable contribution and expert input.<\/em>
\nCan You Get Pregnant If You Have Hydrocephalus?<\/h2>\n
\nPre-Pregnancy Planning: Things to Consider<\/h2>\n
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\nHydrocephalus in the Baby: Is It Genetic?<\/h2>\n
\nPregnancy: What to Expect<\/h2>\n
\nSymptoms to Watch For<\/h2>\n
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\nEmergency Plan\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n
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\nImaging Considerations<\/h2>\n
\nDelivery Considerations<\/h2>\n
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\n![\"Stephanie,](\"https:\/\/www.hydroassoc.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/Image_20260219_144208_945-400x600.jpeg\")
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\nPostpartum Recovery<\/h2>\n
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\nBreastfeeding and Hydrocephalus<\/h2>\n
\nMental Health and Emotional Support<\/h2>\n
\nSupport from Partners and Loved Ones\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n
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\nQuestions to Ask Your OB-GYN and Neurosurgeon<\/h2>\n
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\nHelpful Tools and Resources<\/h2>\n
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\nYou Can Have a Healthy Pregnancy with Hydrocephalus<\/h2>\n
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\nThis article is designed to provide helpful information on the subjects discussed. It is not intended as a substitute for treatment advice from a medical professional. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition, consult your doctor.<\/em><\/p>\n\r\n Was this resource helpful?<\/h3>\r\n <\/div>\r\n