ELCS post 41 weeks...

[Mitchell2]

For a variety of reasons which I'm happy with I made the decision that should I go over due I don't want to be induced I want an ELCS.

I raised this with my midwife at 35/36 weeks as I knew I'd need to see a consultant. She was quite dismissive and said it's not a problem and she can do it closer to the time convinced that I'd go early anyway

Raised again, at 38 weeks, in front of a student so there are witnesses! And at 39 I raised it again. At the 39 week appt she said she'd call the consultant the next day but I think she forgot, as at my 40 week appointment (40+2) she said she'd rung (I got the impression it was that day) and had to fight for an appointment as there weren't any available for 3 weeks, but she was able to get one sooner so my consultant appointment isn't until 41 weeks!

I'm guessing it's too late anyway to get another appt (it's on Monday) but has anyone had any experience of pushing for a CS so late, and if so how long they had to wait? I don't want the added stress of having to fight for this, nor for them to guilt me or refuse on the basis that they don't have as ELCS slots available etcetera and we get to a stalemate as I know the policy for them is very anti CS.

Hugs OP. Didnt want to read and run - cant offer any advice (was induced at 40+13 after being told no to a section at my 34 week appt with consultant due to an existing health problem). At the time was just relieved to get a date for induction but on reflection my MW could have been more proactive throughout, as my concerns were not addressed until second trimester.

Hoping someone with experience of this comes along soon with advice, it must be so frustrating for you and is absolutely the last thing you need at this time, especially when you are overdue and particularly emotional and feeling vulnerable.xxx

I assume at your consultants appointment they will book your section rather than book your induction. But chances are you will have had your baby by then!

And you will just have to refuse induction on the basis you want a section instead - they will be keener to get baby out than to let you go past 42 weeks (although to do that is entirely your choice also) so shouldn't argue too much. Had you considered asking for expectant management rather than induction? Waiting a bit longer might let you avoid surgery altogether?

Yes fx she decides to arrive before then.

Have considered pushing for monitoring up to / just over 42 weeks but the midwife did raise an eyebrow and said that their policy is to induce anyway at 41+3 so I think that will be another fight!

I think they will book me in on Monday but what if they are 'too busy' and refuse as it's EL rather than EM? Or refuse unless I try an induction (ie see how I progress then if nothing give me one?) I don't want to feel pressured at this stage

Just so bloody annoying...I know I have the right to chose etc but also am aware of the trusts policies and I'm already post due and fed up and just am jacked off that my midwife hasn't listened to me so I'm now in a position that I can't have non time sensitive discussions with people about my wishes

You're going to have to fight your corner either way. Our hospital policies trust is to induce at 41+5 - so you're being denied two days to have your baby naturally purely because of location. NICE guidelines state all women should be offered expectant management - you aren't being awkward by asking for it, and it could mean the difference between natural delivery and a section. It's horrible I know - I had the same argument with my consultant about em and left in tears (even though I 'won' in the end)