Earlier this week, Princess Eugenie shared a snap of her with her son, August, hugging her belly to announce that she was pregnant with her second child. But as with the birth of August, Princess Eugenie’s delivery plans could be very different from other Royal women.
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Princess Eugenie’s childhood health condition
When Princess Eugenie was 12 years old, she was diagnosed with scoliosis. According to Scoliosis Association UK, scoliosis is when the spine of otherwise healthy individuals curves to the side. In some cases, the spine also twists. It is generally not known what causes it, and depending on the severity of the curvature, it is possible to treat it with non-surgical treatment.
However, Princess Eugenie was diagnosed with severe scoliosis and needed to undergo eight hours of surgery to correct her curvature. The surgery involved inserting two titanium rods on each side of the Princess’s spine and then fixed with screws at the top of her neck.
In 2018, Princess Eugenie's wedding dress 'showcased' her scar, and she has since taken to social media to encourage others to 'be proud' of their scars. Today Princess Eugenie is a patron of the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) Charity, where she underwent corrective surgery.
How will it affect her pregnancy?
As with her first child, August, Princess Eugenie’s titanium rods are likely to affect the way she will be able to give birth. It was rumoured that Princess Eugenie gave birth to her first child via c-section and may have to again with her second child.
According to experts, Princess Eugenie’s corrective surgery can create problems during labour and vaginal birth, especially when an epidural is required. Indeed, the positioning of the titanium rods can render it difficult for doctors to administer pain relief correctly.
The Scoliosis Association UK website advises women with scoliosis to look into other pain relief methods. They also insist women discuss the eventuality of a c-section and appropriate pain relief with healthcare professionals early on in the pregnancy.
Sources used:
- The Mirror: Pregnant Princess Eugenie's health condition that could affect birth of second baby
- Scoliosis Association UK: What is scoliosis?
- RNOH Charity: Princess Eugenie's story
- Hello!: How Princess Eugenie's childhood health condition has impacted her life
