Planned C-Section: Thoughts?

[LottyJ81]

I am almost 37 weeks and have found out my baby is breech, so have a section planned in for week 39. I have refused an ECV as I have heard only bad things. And being very honest, I have wanted a c section since before I was even pregnant! The things is, it seems to be a very controversial decision with many of my friends weighing in with their views. The majority of people tell me to avoid at all costs because of recovery. But I've also had friends say to ignore the scaremongering as planned c sections are far better than emergency ones. And a lot of people I know who have had natural labors, have been through a terrible time. So it seems to me that at the end of the day, it will all just be what it will be?

I am fully aware of the fact it is a major op and of the recovery process etc but I just know that this is the better options for me personally. And not to mention the fact that I don't really have a choice if she remains breech!!

Has anyone had a planned section? How did it go? Any thoughts?

Just had an ELCS on Thursday (had previous EMCS). I'm feeling pretty good! Home pottering around now. The recovery has definitely been easier than last time and I'm only taking a couple of ibruprofen twice a day.
The actual procedure isn't pleasant but the baby comes out really quickly so you are totally distracted while they put you back together
Pretty civilised all in all.

Anyone can choose to have an elective CS on the NHS. AbbeyRoad is right, it's NICE guidance which have to be followed. Most midwives may make you feel like you can't choose. If you want it, just explain your decision & stick to it!

If you're generally fit, it's quite a quick recovery.

Can I just say, that this is not always the case, even for an elective caesarean. There are no absolutes with any sort of birth, and sometimes the recovery from a planned section can be long and arduous. I really felt I must have done something wrong after my cs, because I had heard so many positive stories that I couldn't understand why I was finding it so hard! Just be kind to yourself, and take it easy, everyone recovers in different ways.

Good luck with whatever happens.

Interested to read this as my baby is currently breech. I had not even considered c section as an option, due to not being able to drive for 6wks - i live in a rural area and this would be a nightmare. However kf baby doesn't turn (31 + 5 so time yet......) I will not be having an ECV so it will be planned section. Not loving the idea tbh but i don't see any other option!

Nottalotta I'm in the same boat. Baby currently breech, rural location, would love to avoid a CS due to worries about being housebound if I can't drive. But in the last two days I've read up on ECV and put it firmly in the camp of "absolutely No". Not least because baby can still turn back, and labour could still result in a EMCS so it would have been for nothing. Not all insurance companies have a flat 6-week policy so I'm planning to find out what mine is and then try to drum up some chauffeur volunteers in advance.

Nottalotta- have you checked the c section rules with your insurance company? Mine have said I can drive as soon as I feel able to, including an emergency stop without hesitation. I also live rurally although DH is a SAHD so will be around to take me places. Still might have to wait the 6 weeks if I take that long to heal but from what I've read on other Mumsnet threads a lot of women are driving again after about three weeks.

I had a crash section and a planned one. Your baby might still turn on its own accord. If not and if it were me, I'd definitely take the elcs. It's controlled, and a routine procedure. No way I a million years would I let anyone turn my baby. I was also able to bf after both sections. Best of luck!

I think they'd be quite bold to refuse a planned section of a breech baby, even if they've hinted that might be the case. It might be an idea to put your request in writing, explaining that the risks of breech vaginal delivery are unacceptable to you, and why.

I had a forceps vaginal birth with my first and it took me months to recover. Couldnt walk the half mile to the shop for about 8 weeks post partum without needing to sit down, couldn't lift anything heavier than my baby because of the pelvic floor dysfunction and prolapse pushing down onto the stitches from the episiotomy. And the prolapse gave me a heavy draggy feeling like my insides were falling out.

I had pain on standing for months. Pain after sex for over a year.

That was after a vaginal birth so dont assume a vb is easy recovery and a cs not. Friends who had a cs (including emcs) recovered faster than I did.

Do what's best for YOU.

Thanks, will check with insurance. I do have in laws that can drive me if need be - husband leaves the house at 4.45am and returns 12hrs later!