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Autoimmune disease

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Original poster

To ask if you have crohns or colitis and had a c section?

17 replies

Pixiefringe · 18/05/2020 11:20

I'm 32+4 and am strongly considering a c section because of health problems that have arisen in this pregnancy.

I've been hitting a brick wall trying to get information or advice from my midwives, but one doctor I spoke to said she doesn't recommend a c section because the recovery time could be much longer because of my condition.

Haven't had a chance to speak to my consultant about it yet.

Has anyone here had a c section despite having an IBD and gestational diabetes? And if so, how was your recovery? Do you regret it?

TIA

OP posts:

MNHQ

JoMumsnet · 18/05/2020 12:40

Hi, we're moving this thread over to our Autoimmune Disease topic, as requested and giving it a bump to get it back into Active Conversations - hopefully some Mumsnetters will be along soon with some advice and support.

Sorry you're going through a difficult and worrying time, Pixiefringe. Hope the rest of your pregnancy goes smoothly.

MNHQ

JoMumsnet · 18/05/2020 13:50

Just bumping this again in case anyone's around to help.

Original poster

Pixiefringe · 18/05/2020 14:13

Thanks so much @Jo

OP posts:

Ruddle91 · 18/05/2020 14:15

I wanted a c section because of my condition. Any anal sphincter injury scared me as I could have ended up with literally have no control at all over the explosive episodes I have. They're hard enough to manage with full control. My consultant agreed it but called it "maternal request" on paper.

Ruddle91 · 18/05/2020 14:16

I forgot to add my recovery was text book and if I have more DC I absolutely would go down the same route again.

RhubarbFizz · 18/05/2020 14:17

Hi I had a c section with my 3rd child; had no choice as the baby was transverse! I also had gestational pregnancy ( in all my pregnancies) and have an autoimmune disorder. I have no way to compare to others. I was not told it would take ,on her to recover - had to stay in hospital for a week due to baby being in.
After 3 weeks I was able to be home with no adult help, but could not walk as far as the school to take older children. Drove at 8 weeks.

Original poster

Pixiefringe · 18/05/2020 14:24

That's part of what I'm worried about too. I imagine any damage in that area would make it basically impossible to hold it in. It can be difficult enough now at times. Did you recover from the c section ok or did it take a long time?

OP posts:

Original poster

Pixiefringe · 18/05/2020 14:24

My reply was a bit late thank you both!

OP posts:

loutypips · 18/05/2020 14:42

I had a caesarean as my baby was breech, I also had gestational diabetes and although not diagnosed at the time, ulcerative colitis.
My recovery was fine, luckily I wasn't flaring at the time I don't think... but much easier recovery than having my gallbladder out! No complications, although be prepared for gas pains afterwards, but if you have IBD then you'll be used to those anyway.
If I ever had another baby I'd book a caesarean straight away!

Original poster

Pixiefringe · 18/05/2020 14:51

Thank you @loutypips.

Is there a cut off date to officially request a c section? I'm not seeing my consultant again until I am 34/35 weeks and this is when I'll bring it up (have emailed them but not discussed in person).

OP posts:

loutypips · 18/05/2020 14:56

I'm not sure... maybe call your midwife. I was offered the caesarean due to madam being breech. They also said I was having a 10lb + due to the GD, but she was only 7lb6oz!

Pauline91 · 19/05/2020 16:11

Hi sorry I can't be of any help but I just wanted to join as I have Crohn's and have been looking into a C-Section myself because of health problems in the past and having read certain articles about risk of incontinence. I have had all of my large bowl removed and a bag on, which was then reversed/removed however I also take immune suppressants. I feel a bit like i'm stuck as to what's best! I am very early on in my pregnancy so I have a lot of time to discuss options but it is something which is playing on my mind. Again sorry I can be of any help I hope those who have been there done that so to speak can give you some advice and reassurance xx

Hearhoovesthinkzebras · 19/05/2020 16:13

I have had a c section and have Crohn's, though wasn't diagnosed at the time, but I was clearly having episodes of what was later diagnosed as IBD.

Recovery was much quicker from the c section, even with pre eclampsia, than from my later VBAC.

RhubarbFizz · 20/05/2020 18:08

I recovered fine from the section but it took longer than a non-section delivery for me. Gestational diabetes went straight away.

My section was not booked until 36 weeks, as had hoped baby would move!

KatieGlo · 27/05/2020 08:42

I'm in the same boat!
Crohns with previous illeocaecal resection, on Infliximab, scared that a vaginal birth will damage the bowel/ pelvic floor.
Consultant said I can try for a V-birth, but after having a good think I'd much rather go for elcs, avoid too much exhaustion in labour and have my pelvic floor in tact. Good luck with whatever you choose x

LightenUpSummer · 20/06/2020 12:21

Recovery from my CS (for a breech baby) was very easy and comparable with my previous uncomplicated vaginal birth, if not easier as the stitches weren't in a "stingy" area. Please don't be scared of CS recovery.

Sounds like what I'd choose in your shoes, if possible, to avoid potential damage. I have UC by the way but have been in remission for many years, including during my baby years.

Incidentally I put my remission down to diet, and I really don't want to foist this on anyone, obviously could be coincidence etc, but in case anyone's interested it's grain and dairy free, and I've been symptom free and off all drugs for 15 years.

TuckMyWin · 20/06/2020 13:12

I can't speak for the recovery time, but in your position I'd request a c-section. Anal incontinence is sadly relatively common following childbirth, and I would imagine your condition would make it trickier to keep clean any stitches following a vaginal birth. An infected episiotomy, with the potential for it to break down, is not fun, believe me.

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