Navigating a First Pregnancy with hEDS or HSD: What Expecting Mothers Should Know

For first-time pregnant individuals with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD), pregnancy can come with unique considerations that deserve thoughtful, specialized care.

While pregnancy is different for everyone, hypermobility can influence everything from pain levels and physical support needs to labor, delivery, healing, and postpartum recovery. Understanding these differences early can help expecting mothers feel more informed, supported, and empowered throughout the journey.

One of the most valuable resources I share with my pregnant patients is a set of best-practice clinical guidelines designed specifically for individuals with hEDS and HSD. I encourage patients to share these recommendations with their OB/GYN and prenatal care team to help guide individualized care planning.

These guidelines cover important prenatal and postpartum considerations, including:

• Labor and birthing positions that may better support joint stability and comfort
• Differences in anesthesia response and pain management considerations
• Healing timelines and postpartum recovery expectations
• Joint protection and mobility considerations throughout pregnancy and delivery
• Pelvic floor and musculoskeletal support strategies

As a pelvic health physical therapist, preparation for vaginal delivery often looks different for patients with hEDS or HSD. Prenatal physical therapy may involve earlier pain management strategies, pelvic and core support, and the use of support garments sooner than is typical due to increased joint laxity, instability, or discomfort.

The goal is not only to prepare for delivery, but also to support comfort, function, and recovery throughout pregnancy and postpartum.

If you are pregnant and living with hEDS or HSD, know that you are not alone—and that individualized, informed care can make a meaningful difference.

You can read the evidence-based best practice guidelines here:
https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/management-of-childbearing-with-hypermobile-ehlers-danlos-syndrome-and-hypermobility-spectrum-disorders-a-scoping-review-and-expert-co-creation-of-evidence-based-clinical-guidelines/

Wishing first-time expecting mothers everywhere a healthy pregnancy, delivery, and recovery. Education is empowerment!