VB or Elective C Section

[katelewis320]

Hello!

I am currently 27 weeks and haven't really given much thought to the actual event of childbirth. This is a conscious move as I didn't want to get myself all worked up too early and not enjoy the pregnancy in the early stages.
I am slightly overweight and have history of Deep Vein Thrombosis so am considered high risk. I can't come to a decision whether a vaginal birth is best or whether I should ask for a c section. I haven't seen a consultant yet but have an appointment booked so I can ask them for a medical opinion. I guess I just wanted to ask a non medical view out of curiousity before I go for my appointment. This is my first baby so I have no experience of anything childbirth related. Any advice is greatly appreciated. :)

[welshweasel]

Both of those risk factors make a c section far riskier than a vaginal delivery and in the absence of any other reasons I'd go for a vaginal delivery in your shoes.

I had an elective c section.

[DialMforMummy]

A C section is not without risks and your mobility is reduced after having one (been there). When I had mine, I had to inject some product that makes your blood thinner in my tummy for week (I was over 35). That was fun. A CS is major surgery and not everyone recovers well
Unless you have any other reason to opt for a CS, I'd try to have a VB.

[katelewis320]

Thank you ladies. I am already on the injectable blood thinners in the tummy and it's pretty grim. The midwife told me that either would be safe but not without risks. I think I would rather have the vb if I'm totally honest as even though the idea of tearing isn't very nice I would prefer it to surgery. It's just so confusing especially when you hear horror stories on both sides!!

[DialMforMummy]

I have had 2 CS, none out of choice. I recovered brilliantly from both. Not everyone tears, I know plenty people who did not and had good births!
People love to share their horror stories, it's not very helpful to do so to a pregnant woman....

[MyBreadIsEggy]

kate think of it this way:
If you have a VB and end up with a tear requiring stitches, generally speaking, it will be a minor thing that usually heals pretty quickly with a bit of discomfort - after about a week, I barely noticed my stitches anymore.
I tearing/episiotomy was the one thing I was absolutely terrified of during my first pregnancy, but I did not even realise the minor tear I got had happened, and it required a few stitiches that were dissolved within a couple of weeks. Generally speaking, I think the thought of it happening, because it's "down there" is worse than the reality.
Whatever you decide, I hope all goes well for you!!

[earthmoon]

If you have a c-section now then that MIGHT effect your subsequent birthing options. Ask your midwife how opting for c-section now might effect future deliveries. By that I mean if you end up wanting vbac for next time and baby needs to come out early then induction methods become limited.