Can I change my mind and opt for c section?

[Sarahhhhhhhhhh]

I had an emergency c section as my labour was not progressing, and it turned out he was a whopper at 10lb 5oz. I am now 22 weeks pregnant again and decided I wanted to have a natural birth however I had my 20 week scan and I have a low lying placenta, the midwife also told me babies can get bigger, and feel as though professionals are trying to put me off having a natural delivery. Can anybody tell me if I am to late to opting for a c section and how long I have to decide for certain?

As far as I know, it's not too late to request a C-section (sometimes they only get put into the consultant's diary a few weeks before birth - it's a question of being granted an ELCS in time while there are still slots free). Note that requesting one doesn't mean they'll definitely give you one.

However, it's definitely the case that the sooner you raise any issues with the midwife and consultant, the better. The consultant midwife and doctor I'm seeing for my ELCS say that they don't mind considering ELCS requests and will often let a mother be free to decide until quite late on, but they don't like it if a mother rocks up late and 'demands' an ELCS. It means there is no time for them to work through any problems with the mother (who, after having her mind reassured, might prefer a natural birth in the end).

I had a similar experience with my DD although she was a mere 9lbs 4oz which seems pretty tiny in comparison! Had my first consultant appointment in this pregnancy a couple of weeks ago and I was told I wouldn't see them again until 36 weeks at which point they would ask me to make a decision on natural birth vs ELCS. So my experience is that they're happy to leave it until quite late in the pregnancy for you to make your decision. I haven't seen my midwife since though so maybe she'll ask me for a decision sooner?

I was told that if I booked in for a ELCS but went into labour naturally then I would have to attempt a natural birth as once you've gone into labour its an EMCS with more risks associated. I imagine this depends on your individual circumstances though.

In any event I don't think you should let anyone push you into a decision you're not happy with. If you want a natural birth then go for it!