A bit of praise for C sections

[CateMercer]

I had a C section myself a couple of years ago and I found this post interesting. My sister sometimes is a bit rude about it. Saying it wasn't a 'proper birth'. Hmm. www.frostmagazine.com/2015/07/why-a-caesarian-can-be-a-positive-birth-experience/

I've had two cd, first was emcs the second ELCS 15 months later, both positive experiences and fairly straightforward recovery although my second was 3 weeks ago I developed a haematoma under my scar which has only just stopped bleeding (didn't hurt, just looked and felt yukky) and the consultant said it was just down to luck as to where the blood pools after an operation.

I've got friends who have had horrendous natural bIrths, forceps, episiotomies that haven't healed until months and months later, corrective surgery/ prolapse issues requiring consultant care and check ups requiring fingers up the bum and vagina to check the muscles are healing etc... I know everyone is different but for me that would be traumatic and more so than being cut open in the lower abdomen!

Like NeedanInsight, I had an elcs after a vb birth (well 2!) and it was easily 10 times worse than the vb's. I felt like a woman sawn in two in a magic show, and the whole experience left me with some longterm issues.

Any kind of birth can be wonderful. Any kind of birth can be horrendous.

There are no medals handed out for either.

I had an emcs with dc1 after a long labour and failing to progress and am now 2 weeks away from my third elcs. I'm looking forward to meeting my baby but not the section, I find them and the recovery hateful even though all the drs and nurses are lovely.

I had an EMCS ten days ago after a failed and agonising induction. It saved my baby and was so swift and practically painless afterwards. I could not recommend it highly enough. I'm in South Africa where the ELCS rate is up to 80% in those women who can afford it. The usual practice is to book your ELCS for your due date or the closest day that appeals to you. I will absolutely definitely do that next time.

Two emcs but both my choice iexdeciding not to continue with labour rather a baby must come out now type.

I was advised two years between sections but seem to be the only one I know told that. I managed 1 year and 46 weeks ????

hazeyjane Me too, exactly how I felt!

Still quite traumatised. Can't watch OBEM as it's where my c section was! shudder

A year on, I'm still completely numb in my lower stomach/pelvic area, the scar is bumpy and sore and it's completely ruined my previously gloriously flat stomach. A right botch job.

I'm due surgery to correct the damage from the natural birth - and yet it's the c section that has mentally damaged me. The pain aghhh. (and this is from a woman who couldn't sit down for 2 weeks after the natural birth!)