Birth Story

Helsi - thinking of electing for csection

I am new here but am wanting to share with you my thoughts on why I am wanting an elective section.

I had my first child 3 years ago and was in labour for 18 hours. The baby became distressed and as I had not dilated past 4 cms they advised an emergency c-section. I didn't find this traumatic in the least or feel that I had missed out on anything I was just happy to have my baby. I suffered with SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction) in that pregnancy and they thought that it may have had something to do with the slow dilation.

Now in this pregnancy (I am 25 weeks) I have suffered with chronic SPD & PPP (posterior pelvic pain) since 10 wks pg. I am really frightened about having a vbac as I am worried about doing more damage than good. I know som women have had babies on all fours when they are an SPD sufferer but I cannot even get on all ours pain free! I am scared that if I have an epidural, the pushing etc will do more damage than good and as I would be unable to feel it this could be very damaging for me forever.

I am also waiting tests back for diabetes as it runs in the family on both sides.

I have therefore decided to push for a c-section and am going to fight my corner.

thanks for listening.

Comment from Leigh - 24 Jan 2006

It sounds like you are making a very wise choice for your situation. I am very pleased to hear that your previous emergency caesarean was such a positive experience, I guess it is that that is helping with your decision this time round? Are you finding your healthcarers supportive in your decision?

Do post your story on the discussion board after your birth. We believe that it is very important for people to share their stories so that others can learn more about birth options.

All the best for baby number two.

Comment from sonia - 27 Jan 2006

hello i am 34 weeks with 2nd baby. 1st baby was delivered by c-section after failed induction. I was 13 days over due, had 3 lots of gel, strong contractions and didn't even dilate to 1cm after 3 days.

saw house officer at 20 week appt who failed to answer any of my questions saying she didi not know hospital policies and kept saying i was fine to try for a vbac this time. i kept saying i did not want to make a decision yet and would wait until my 36 week appt but was amazed to come out and fine she had written in my notes that i wanted a vbac! was she even listening to me?

2 out of three midwives have told me they doubt i could deliver naturally this time and i myself do not want a repeat of last time so after much debating have decided i want an elective caesarean. i am very anxious as i feel the doctors are not listening to me and are pushing me into having a vbac. i am due to see them again next week.

i would be interested to hear others opinions and do you think after the last birth i am right to request an elective.

Comment from Leigh - 29 Mar 2006

Hi Sonia, congratulations on your 2nd pregnancy.

A couple of thoughts spring to mind:

Firstly it is worth remembering that some hospitals do have a policy of "no elective caesareans without clear medical indications". However check out the "Rights" section of this website...it is your legal right to request a caesarean in the UK and if your hospital is not willing to agree to it, the 'NICE' guidelines clearly state that the hospital has to refer you to another hosptial that will carry out the procedure.

Secondly, there is (quite rightly) a big drive in the UK to support women who want to try for a VBAC after they have had a previous caesarean. In the past many women have been pressured to have a caesarean when they really wanted a VBAC. This said, at the end of the day it is your body, your baby and your decision. So if you feel you need a bit of moral support in your next meeting with the Doctors take someone with you. You may not need them but they will just help you feel stronger and more able to stand your ground.

My personal opinion is - you have already been through a big debate about how you want to give birth, you have been told you might have difficulties this time round, you feel an elective is the right thing for you. So who is anyone to argue.

The very best of luck in your next meeting and with your birth. Do tell us how you get on.