Elective CS - how do you decide on the date?

[SandraClegane]

Hey there,

I'm 14w with DC3 and after two previous EMCS have decided to go for an elective one this time.
As I'm seeing the consultant on Thursday, here's my question: How is the date decided on? How much input do you get?
I'd like to have the CS as close to the due date as possible - my other two were late (1 week/ 10 days) so I think the chances of me going into labour beforehand are slim. I'd like to give this baby as much time as I can (clearly my babies need to bake longer than the average); and frankly I want to get the birth day as far away from Christmas as possible (due date 9 Jan).

So, what was your experience? I know they usually do it at 39w if there's no medical reason, but is there any room to negotiate?

It's really interesting how much it varies. It seems some are really strict and others happy to let you choose (and go to 40w!).
I will bring it up at my appt tomorrow but seeing as I'm only 15 w then I doubt we'll get to set a date... Shame, because I'd really like to start organising things!!

Mine was scheduled at 16w (it was for medical reasons so no option of vaginal birth) so I knew the birth date really early on....

At my 12 week scan I met the consultant after and had the date for my section scheduled. I was given the option of any time between 39+0 and 40+0.

Update, while I wasn't able to book the date today, I found out they're doing ELCS every day Mon-Fri. And the consultant made a note that I don't want to deliver before 40w (although he said this will be discussed at my 36w appt, when the date will be set).
So, overall not too bad!