C section dates why so early

[LadyPug]

Hi everyone,

Just wondering why all elective c sections are booked before 40 weeks? I’m going for VBAC so if do end up with an elective c section it won’t be until 42 weeks. Is there a reason everyone has electives early? Thanks!

@Wellthisunexpected I felt similarly to you. Currently 33 weeks, have an elective booked for 39+1 and have been massively reassured by multiple Consultants that if I go into labour early (I went at 38 weeks last time), get to hospital and assuming baby isn't crowning, they will do an emcs if that's what I want.

Part of my issue is that I'm involved in a study that is looking at outcomes relating to what happened last time and it's shown me exactly how lucky me and ds were. I have no desire to roll those dice again but I can not fault the support I've been given.

I was told after my first that the GP could refer me to a talk to an Obstetrician about a second child and to get a plan in place early. I didn't do that for various reasons but it might be worth having a chat and seeing if your trust offers a similar service.

thanks dino hadn't considered that.

I think it also depends on exactly why a section is planned. DS was an unstable/transverse lie, it would have been very dangerous if my waters had gone. But the hospital wanted to balance the risk of me going into labour against waiting as long as possible to help with his respiratory rates etc, as they don't do ELCS's before 39 weeks without a medical need. So I was booked into the first slot available after I reached 39 weeks and had him at 39+2. (Although by my dates he was actually 38+2 anyway).