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Childbirth

Share experiences and get support around labour, birth and recovery.

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Original poster

I'd like a c section

15 replies

aimeeswann · 17/04/2015 19:22

Hi. I'm due to go to my first consultant meeting in a couple of weeks (I'm 17 weeks) and having done some homework I'd like to ask for a C section. Not the kind where you're given a general anaesthetic - the kind where you're conscious but you're given a spinal block. The biggest reason for me wanting this kind of a delivery is my anxiety disorder which I think could very easily land me in an emergency C section situation anyway. My anxiety problem is all over my notes so the consultant and anyone else can see it's genuine but my question is - does anyone know if this is sufficient grounds for me to be granted a C section please? I realise they'll ask me a lot of questions and they'll refer me to specialists etc which is all fine. I'm happy to explain my reasoning. But can anyone tell me if they think they'll accept anxiety as a cause for allowing me a section? Also I'll be 40 when I give birth (1st baby) - would this go in my favour? I'd like to be really, really clear - I'm not looking for any comments about how I'm crazy to want a c section followed by horror stories. I appreciate people often feel very strongly about it but I've heard it all on another site I asked this question on. I really am just trying to find out if I'm likely to be granted my chosen delivery method given my circumstances so if anyone can help with that, I'd be most grateful. Many thanks.

OP posts:

PotteringAlong · 17/04/2015 19:23

In theory, nice guidelines say anyone can have a section for whatever reason.

Original poster

aimeeswann · 17/04/2015 19:27

Oh that's great to know, thank you.

OP posts:

NameChange30 · 17/04/2015 19:32

A good friend is having a C-section for a similar reason. She encountered some resistance from the obstetrician she first saw but her GP and midwife have been very supportive. The rules say they have to give you a C-section if you want one, I think they are supposed to refer you to a psychologist to discuss the reasons, but if you still want one after that they can't refuse. In reality they might try and persuade you. Check out this website for info and advice on your rights: www.birthrights.org.uk/

thecrimsonpetal · 17/04/2015 19:36

Aimee the 2011 NICE guidelines in theory state anyone can have a section for any reason. If one consultant doesn't agree with your reasons, they have to refer you to someone who will. Does your midwife know how you feel? Has she been supportive?

I would suggest you do lots of research about c-sections, arm yourself with plenty of knowledge about the benefits and risks, I think HCP' s take people far more seriously if they show they know what they are on about.

PM me if you like, I've had two ELCS and know a little about it

Original poster

aimeeswann · 17/04/2015 19:43

Thanks Emma. That's exactly what I was after. I'll have a good read through the information in the link you've sent me and make sure I know my rights in case I need to be quite assertive (not fantastic at that!). I'm happy to explain myself to anyone they want me to see. But as long as I know they can't say no, I can feel more confident. Thanks again. Perfect answer

OP posts:

Original poster

aimeeswann · 17/04/2015 19:46

Thanks Crimson petal. Um - not sure how to pm you. New to this! But if you can be any help I'd be so grateful. Thank you.

OP posts:

thecrimsonpetal · 17/04/2015 19:49

I'll pm you- if you go to My Mumsnet in top right corner you can check your inbox

Original poster

aimeeswann · 17/04/2015 19:53

Bless your heart - thank you. I really appreciate that.

OP posts:

Christelle2207 · 17/04/2015 20:08

I pushed for a c-section for no2 just because of the anxiety surrounding this birth following a horrid complicated experience delivering no1 naturally. I ended up having a useful discussion with the consultant- she said there was no reason physically to recommend it but for psychological reasons I could have one. However she said that in this case no final decision could be made until 36 weeks and sent me off with some reading describing the risks etc. In the end I think I've opted to go doe a VB overall so pleased they made me wait.

Thisismyfirsttime · 17/04/2015 20:14

I wanted an ELCS and when I saw the consultant I explained why, I had a copy of the NICE guidelines with me (the relevant bit) and as he was explaining the cons to me I was following up with bits of information I was aware of. Appt lasted 20 or so mins and I had my section agreed! It wouldn't have been as straightforward if he couldn't clearly see that I knew what I was letting myself in for. And fwiw I had a brilliant section (2days earlier than planned in the end) and a fabulous recovery, I was home next day and back to normal within a week!

Blarblarblar · 17/04/2015 20:22

My first birth ended in an emergency CS it was awful. I went into my midwives when pregnant with my 2nd ready for a fight because I wanted an elective and she was great, my consultant was great no one tried to persuade me. It was just a discussion about the pros and cons and they respected my decision. So you might find when they hear your reasons and speak to you it's fine. Just bare in mind you might still find it a wee bit scary, I don't say this to scare you but its still an anxious situation, good luck whatever you do.

Foraslut · 18/04/2015 05:37

I've had sections and it's been an overall good experience. But it tends to be acceptable to ask for one here and get it. I hope you get what you want OP.

teachermummy2b · 18/04/2015 13:28

I have had an elective section agreed this week due to maternal request (basically fear and anxiety of 'natural' delivery). Having a supportive mw really helped - she came along to my consultant appointment and advised me not to see him as he was unsympathetic and would refuse. She then arranged for me to see a different consultant, and went through my notes with the sister who works alongside the consultant prior to this appointment. His exact words were "A planned section is exactly the same risk of a vaginal birth, and in cases of anxiety are a perfectly valid option." Thanks to the groundwork done by my mw he agreed immediately, I didn't need to justify my request. Hth. Pm me if you like. Good luck

Original poster

aimeeswann · 18/04/2015 17:49

Thank you to all of you for the really helpful and comforting advice. I'm going to print off some bits and make some notes and make sure I understand my rights before I go. Thanks guys. This is exactly the advice I was after

OP posts:

RedToothBrush · 20/04/2015 12:04

does anyone know if this is sufficient grounds for me to be granted a C section please?

Yes it is. But be prepared for some resistance. Some hospitals are more difficult than others. However it is a medical reason for an ELCS (it is not for non-medical reasons which some people will say).

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