Would you judge someone for choosing to have a c section?

[ProudOtter]

I’m just curious as to why you would judge someone for choosing to have an elective c section?

For background I’ve decided I’d like to ask for a c section for baby number 2. Some people have made comments about me being insane, or that I’m missing out of giving birth “properly”

I am curious as to why some people have this view.

My first born was semi elective c section, was rushed into an induction due to minor fetal distress and escalated a bit so had to choice to attempt vaginal birth or go for a C-section and I chose the c section. Positive experience and no regrets.

often after having a c section it’s advised to do the same for the second anyway so just say that.

but no I wouldn’t care regardless, none of my business.

No. Not that I'm ever going to have another child but after my previous births I would absolutely have an elective section if I did

It is 2025, maternal choice really isn't anyone else's business. Anyone making it so should be ignored.

No judgement from me. DS was born via emergency c-section after a long and painful back to back labour.

A healthy baby and an undamaged mum is the best outcome surely, regardless of how that happens.

And to be honest, with the state of maternity care at the moment I’d be opting for a section whatever the circumstances.

Only if it's because they're "afraid" of the pain of giving birth naturally and don't actually have a medical reason for a c-section

If it's medically indicated then fair enough

If it's because you're a wuss then yes, I will judge you

No.

No, but I had a maternal choice c section (because “I’m a wuss” as someone vile else charmingly put it upthread) so obviously not. I can’t say I’ve had anyone judge my choice when they find out though, anyone who did would get a piece of my mind.

Because some women think unless you’re half dead and utterly traumatised it’s not a proper birth.

Obviously I disagree with you, because I want to have a c section with baby 2 despite having no medical need.

Absolutely nothing wussy about a C-section, it comes with its own risks, benefits, and discomforts just like a vaginal birth does - the idea that women must suffer and experience pain in order to do it 'properly' went out in the Dark Ages.

Not your vadge, not your business.

Why would you feel that you can judge someone else’s decision? I had an early epidural. Didn’t see any point in being in any pain or discomfort when there was no need.

Yes these are the comments that made me want to make this post!

Absolutely wouldn't judge at all. It is nothing to do with me. I've had two vaginal births and wouldn't say anyone is interested in those either.

Absolutely not. Utterly astounded any woman would hold a judgemental view.
Hahahaha absolutely fuck off to them.

Not at all! Really sad that anyone would judge you. Hope you have a safe delivery.

Can't wrap my head around giving a shit about any other woman's birth/feeding choices. I find it utterly baffling and pretty backwards when other people (ie: women - because men don't care) do.

I was initially told at my 12 week scan that it was highly likely I'd need a section (various reasons), I've now been told I can choose. I've chosen a section for various reasons including being a high risk pregnancy with a history of miscarriages and a lot of anxiety. I have had a couple of judgemental comments, almost all from older people. I feel now that I have to tell people that I have been told I have to have a section to avoid them feeling the need to judge or give any option. I think it's a shame in this day and age and anyone should have the right to choose what they are comfortable with to safely deliver their baby. Do not feel any shame or judgement as you really shouldn't. Good luck with your section and baby!

Thank you and sorry for your losses.

One of the reasons for my c section with baby 2 is I had losses before my first born which made my pregnancy full of anxiety. Knowing that I can request a c section now makes me feel calmer x

Of course not. How you give birth is your choice. Like whether you're a meat eater/vegetarian/vegan or whether you prefer tea or coffee. Makes no fucking difference to anything important.

It's not even pain, it's damage. I had EMCS, supposedly 90% chance of a VBAC, but I'd probably have a c-section again. Why would I risk incontinence, tears and all the other shit that can go wrong to avoid a c section? I already had one, not like I can be scared of having the scar 🤣 C section and vaginal stitches can both get infected. I was up and about within a couple of days, a friend who had a bad tear from vaginal was still incontinent both ways a year later and had to get surgeons involved.

Even if it was scared of being in pain - so what? We routinely have the choice to make life easier and do so. Epidurals to help the pain during vaginal birth. Medications for when we're sick to feel better. Divorce when the husband is a useless twat 😂.

Live your life and ignore judgey people. And if they ask tell them their interest in your vagina and what you use it for is concerning and strange.

Anybody who calls someone else a ‘wuss’ (wtaf) for having a c-section, clearly has no idea what a section involves. Ignorance at its finest.

Allergies are more prevalent in children born by c-section. Perhaps people are judging because you are making a choice that has a negative impact on health outcomes?

Do what you feel happy with, it’s no one else’s business. I’m not sure why you would tell people your plans though.

Of course not. There’s no easy way to get a baby out and so long as both Mother and Baby are healthy and doing well afterwards that’s all that matters.

The wuss comment is ridiculous. Why shouldn’t people fear the pain of childbirth and want to avoid or manage it? It’s hardly a paper cut. Suffering the pain does not make you more of a woman.

Yes this is a big thing still, woman calling others c sections the easy way out.

One of my (now ex friends for multiple reasons) said I was missing out on a proper birth and asked if I felt guilty I didn’t have any part in my son’s birth.

C sections aren’t easy AT ALL.

Of course not. Just like I wouldn't judge someone for having an epidural or a home birth. Who cares? It's their body and their choice.

I was induced with DS and requested an epidural ASAP which was marvellous
With twin DD's, I requested an elective c-section and that was marvellous too.

What an utterly charming individual you are.