Background: Lumbar disk herniation is rare in pregnancy. We report on
three pregnant women with this disorder seen over 2 years. Cases: Thre
e women were seen with progressive back pain, paresthesias, and urinar
y retention. In all three cases, magnetic resonance imaging confirmed
the diagnosis. All failed conservative treatment and required surgery.
All did well postoperatively, with improvement of symptoms and delive
ry at or near term. Conclusion: Lumbar disk herniation should be consi
dered in pregnant women presenting with considerable back or leg pain.
Magnetic resonance imaging is a useful diagnostic tool. Most patients
can be treated conservatively, but those with incapacitating pain, pr
ogressive neurologic deficits, or bowel or bladder dysfunction may req
uire surgical treatment. (C) 1997 by The American College of Obstetric
ians and Gynecologists.