New device and caring for my kids

I have to have my pacemaker replaced in the next few weeks. This is the first time to have the procedure done. I asked several questions that they were stumped by and are supposed to be getting back wtih me so while I'm anxiously waiting I thought I'd see if anyone else had gone through this.
I am still exclusively breastfeeding my 8-month-old son and want to continue to do so at least until he is 1. I also have a very active almost 4-year-old son.
Do you know if the surgery will greatly impact my ability to nurse? (I don't necessarily mean the medication I'll receive for the surgery, more my ability to move around and the discomfort in the area.) I remember when the device was first placed (before I had both my kids) I wasn't allowed to lift heavy things and had limited mobility of my arm. Is that still the case with the replacement?
Thanks for your help!
Abbey

4 Comments

Thanks

by abbeyrd99 - 2015-06-22 04:06:06

Thanks!

I was on an exercise bike within days

by rolsmith - 2015-06-22 04:06:19

The movement limitations for a replacement are not as restrictive as after the first surgery (the wires have settled securely by now). After my last device replacement I was riding an exercise bike within a few days. My doctor told me to treat it like any other minor surgery - the tissue will be weak for a few weeks so don't do anything that pull at the sutures or raises your blood pressure too and you should be ok.

should be fine

by Tracey_E - 2015-06-22 09:06:08

I've had 4 now, replacements are super easy. Talk to them about meds, you might need to pump for a day or two. The arm limitations the first time are from the new leads, most of the discomfort the first time is from making the pocket. None of that applies to replacements, just take care of the incision. My kids were two and three when I had a replacement. I changed diapers and played with them on the floor for a week or two, that's about it. I was done nursing by then, but it wouldn't have been a problem unless you have a baby who likes to bat his fist around. Does he take a bottle at all? Maybe you could pump for at least a few days to see how you feel as a back up plan. Good luck!! Most everyone is amazed at how easy replacements are.

I've done it

by Val-8 - 2015-09-07 08:09:05

You will have to pump and dump for 24 after any pain meds.

Other than that and being ( really) sore nothing was different. I had my 5th unit placed, 7 week old (and a 4 yo) kiddos and had to have my right shoulder opened and old pacer removed, and closed. Had to move onto the left side and have 2 wires placed. So I was open on both sides. For the first day or so my husband sat behind me, and helped me hold her because I was sore. But then I was back to normal, and she nursed till she was 1.

Good luck

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