Joy
Hi, I had this exact surgery myself in 1991. I hurt myself while at work; I was a Nurse. I am now disabled due to an unrelated Health issue that came up...I had a very rare tumor (Desmoid Tumor) that happened after my neck surgery in 1991; the tumor surgery/radiation was in 1993. I won't kid you, it was painful. The recovery time is something you will need to have some kind of help at home, especially having a little one to care for. I had to get a Recliner Chair, & slept in it for the 1st month at home. You'll be wearing a neck brace all the time for a good period of time...it varies according to your doctor's orders. I would make sure your doctor knows you have these concerns...like the pain, Find out what he medicates the patient with, & what his philosophy is as far as medicating you. If you don't get good pain control, the recovery period is very rough. I really hope you have someone who you can call on to help set you up at home, or, if possible, do you have anyone who will either move in with you & your baby, or, anyone who you could move in with in their home? I really wish you the best & am glad you are trying to find out all you can before it happens. I can tell you, that my neck pain from the injury got fixed. I can now bend my head back where before the surgery I could not. I wish you the best! Try to get some support & help from a good friend or loved one if at all possible.