Oh dear, I really need some wise words here.

[MidnightinMoscow]

I am 36 weeks with DC2. Had a EMCS after a long labour with DC1, got to 9cm and then no further. It turns out his head was de-flexed. He weighed 8lb 13oz.

I was all ready to go for a VBAC, and had been listening to VBAC hypno birthing CD's, been to a VBAC class etc. I was obviously nervous, but feeling confident in my choice to give it a go.

However, two weeks ago I admitted to hospital with pleurisy. It was felt that I was measuring large and so I was given a growth scan. At 35 weeks, it is estimated the baby weights 6lb3oz already, and would be 9-10lbs full term.

They have said to re-scan at 38 weeks, and see how things are going then and I can make a decision about delivery.

However, I am driving myself mad worrying about it. I am petrified of shoulder dystocia, and I already have a poor pelvic floor from DC1. I seem to have lost all my confidence in thinking I can do this.

The reasons I didn't want a ELCS was recovery issues/caring for a toddler and newborn. But mainly because I feel this is something I need to do, I will not be having any more children, so this is my last chance. I really feel like I missed out on those magical moments when you hold your baby etc when I had DC1, also breastfeeding never really happened and I had PND.

But, the thought of this big baby terrifies me. I sort of wish the choice was taken from me, and I could just do as advised.

Does anyone have any thoughts/advice?

These few weeks before the birth as supposed to be relaxing, but I am making myself so miserable.

I know it's hard but try not to worry, just take things as they come at the 38w scan. The fact thy are doing that means they are prepared to take different actions depending what they find. They may induce you at 38w (and if that is what you want then ask for it and maybe bring your bag with you too) or give you other options.

I know its difficult, but really try to rest and not worry. Big babies are great! Mine were all huge, the biggest ten pound 4, and I'm sure gravity helps with big babies and he was the easiest to get out!
Talk to whoever will help to get as much support and reassurance as you can. Lots of stuff on here, surf old threads.

Then chill out and know that all will be well. Soon you will have your beautiful baby.

Good luck

I had a growth scan at 36 weeks and est weight then was 6lb. However at my 38 week appt last week my MW said he doesn't feel very big and he has plenty of room moving about still. I am 5'0 and thisis my third. Never had a CS but growth scans can be out by a fair bit.

Thanks for your kind words and reassurance.

Odd they won't do a induction on a VBAC, due to the increase risk of scar rupture, ELCS would be the only option if I don't go into labour of my own accord.

Thatlldo, sounds like you have produced a few big ones! I think I'd feel more confident if I would be able to labour in the ways that are preferable when having a big baby, such as in water, keeping mobile etc. Sadly a VBAC, in my hospital, means on the delivery suite, on continuous monitoring etc.

I suggest you contact one of your local Supervisors of Midwives (SOM).Every maternity service has them whose main remits are midwifery professional standards and advocating for women to get the best and safest birth possible. In my local unit the SOMs are happy to meet with women to help them reconcile their own wishes and fears with any medical or other concerns that have come up. This means eg they are good at supporting women who want to be active in a highly medicalised labour and can help with birthplans or negotiating with other staff on your behalf etc.

Midnight - I really feel for you. As Mayhew says, have you thought about fighting the VBAC protocols to make labour more suitable for a potentially big baby? The can't continuously monitor you unless you agree. Ok, they can refuse water birth, but they can't stop you being mobile. And you could negotiate on the water.

If you really want a VBAC (and it sounds like you do), it sounds like that's the bit you need to focus your energies on - being sure you can labour in a way that makes you confident.

Thank you everyone. Following your advice, I contacted the Matron for the delivery suite and she is happy for me to call her again once I have my scan in 2 weeks.

At the moment I can't imagine being able to try and negotiate on the CFM or water, as I have just lost all confidence in myself.

All the signs are telling me I should just have an ELCS to make life easier. My parents are now stalling over looking after DC1 when I go into labour too, so thats an added complication. (Thats the sort of thing they would do, so no real surprise).

Gahhh! I am driving myself mad.