Trial of Labour - Forceps - EMCS

[gettingrealnow]

I had one EMCS then one "VBAC" aided by forceps... so it wasn't a pretty VBAC.

This time around I have a cesarian booked, but am having second thoughts.

It was suggested to me on here to go for a trial of labour.

Now, if I went for a trial of labour, but had emphasised in my notes that I'd rather have an EMCS than instrumental help with a forceps, would the hospital really follow that in a real life scenario?

I could easily see them trying to go for forceps if they don't have the theatre free or they are otherwise not "able" to do a section.

I don't really know the answer but don't blame you for not wanting forceps or for not really feeling able to trust that your wishes would be taken into account. I too would not feel confident that my preference for CS over an instrumental VB would be heeded and that is partly why I am requesting an ELCS and won't countenance VBAC.

It would be good if someone with more maternity service experience could comment on this though? However, it probably just depends on the individuals (MWs, OBS) who happen to be around and just how busy they are when you go into labour.

Good luck!

If you have a good birth partner who can advocate for you, then it'll happen. I flat our refused any trial by forceps, it was in my birth plan, and when they tried to get me to agree regardless, I refused, and DH refused as well. I was adamant. Remember that no one can do anything to you without consent. I had an emcs in the end, and consultant said that due to dc1 position a trial by forceps would have failed, so I'm glad I stuck to my guns and didn't end up with an episiotomy and a traumatic trial as well as everything else.